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The Impact of HIV/AIDS on Older Persons in Uganda

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Book cover Aging and Health in Africa

Part of the book series: International Perspectives on Aging ((Int. Perspect. Aging,volume 4))

Abstract

The aim of this chapter is to shed insights into the impact of HIV/AIDS on older people in Uganda. The study employed a mixed method approach using both in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The findings suggest that the older population are overwhelmed by their situation. They are directly affected because AIDS is killing their children and spouses, and leaving them with a huge burden of caring for orphaned children. They are not only suffering the economic effects but also emotional and psychological stress. Some are also grappling with their own HIV status. Most elderly people use food cultivation as a mechanism for coping with the burden of orphans. These results lead to recommending that government should economically empower elderly people through the formulation and effective implementation of welfare policies.

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Correspondence to Annet Nankwanga .

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Nankwanga, A., Neema, S., Phillips, J. (2013). The Impact of HIV/AIDS on Older Persons in Uganda. In: Maharaj, P. (eds) Aging and Health in Africa. International Perspectives on Aging, vol 4. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-8357-2_7

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