Living with HIV
With modern HIV treatment, people living with HIV can lead long, healthy, and fulfilling lives. This section provides resources and guidance for managing your health, relationships, and well-being.
You Can Live a Long, Healthy Life with HIV
Thanks to advances in HIV treatment, people diagnosed with HIV today who start treatment early can expect to live nearly as long as people without HIV. The key is getting on treatment and staying on it.
Staying Well with HIV
Physical Health
- Take your HIV medicine every day as prescribed
- See your healthcare provider regularly (at least every 3–6 months)
- Get recommended vaccinations (flu, pneumonia, hepatitis A & B, HPV)
- Eat a nutritious diet and exercise regularly
- Avoid smoking, excessive alcohol, and recreational drugs
- Get screened for other STIs, cancers, and chronic conditions
Mental Health
- Seek counseling or therapy if you're struggling with your diagnosis
- Join a support group for people living with HIV
- Talk to your healthcare provider about depression or anxiety
- Practice stress management techniques (meditation, exercise, hobbies)
- Maintain social connections and avoid isolation
- Be open with trusted friends or family members if comfortable
Relationships & Disclosure
- You are not required to disclose your HIV status to everyone
- Consider disclosing to sexual partners before sex
- With an undetectable viral load, you cannot transmit HIV through sex
- Use condoms to protect against other STIs
- Talk to a counselor about disclosure decisions
- Know your legal rights and responsibilities in your state
Your HIV Care Routine
Regular medical care is essential for people living with HIV. Your healthcare provider will monitor your health and the effectiveness of your treatment through regular lab tests.
| Test / Monitoring | Frequency | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| CD4 Cell Count | Every 3–6 months (or annually if stable) | Measures immune system strength |
| Viral Load | Every 3–6 months | Measures amount of HIV in blood |
| Complete Blood Count (CBC) | Every 3–6 months | Monitors overall blood health |
| Liver & Kidney Function | Every 6–12 months | Monitors organ health, especially with ART |
| STI Screening | Every 3–12 months (based on risk) | Detects other sexually transmitted infections |
| Tuberculosis (TB) Test | Annually | TB is a common opportunistic infection |
| Hepatitis B & C Screening | At diagnosis and periodically | Detects co-infections common in people with HIV |
Aging with HIV
Today, thanks to effective HIV treatment, more people with HIV are living into their 50s, 60s, 70s, and beyond. However, aging with HIV presents unique challenges:
Increased Risk of Other Conditions
People aging with HIV may be at higher risk for heart disease, kidney disease, bone loss, and certain cancers. Regular screenings are important.
Drug Interactions
Older adults often take multiple medications. HIV medicines can interact with other drugs, so it's important to review all medications with your provider.
Cognitive Health
Some people with HIV experience cognitive changes as they age. Talk to your provider if you notice memory problems or difficulty concentrating.
Social Support
Social isolation can be a concern for older adults with HIV. Connecting with support groups and community resources is important for mental health.
Support Resources
Mental Health Services
Find counselors and therapists who specialize in HIV-related mental health.
Learn More →Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program
Federal program providing HIV care and treatment services for low-income individuals.
Learn More →AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP)
Provides HIV medications to low-income individuals who have limited or no coverage.
Learn More →