The Impact of the AIDS Epidemic on the Health of the Elderly in Northwestern Tanzania

Abstract

In Sub-Saharan Africa, as a result of the AIDS epidemic, the elderly often become the caregivers for adult children stricken with HIV/AIDS, the guardians of orphaned grandchildren, and substitute workers for ill or deceased adults in the home and on the farm. But until now most of what has been known about the impact of AIDS on the elderly has been anecdotal, based on case studies of those highly affected and without comparison to a control group. Are the impacts identified in these studies typical? Who is most seriously affected among the elderly? What policies can be most cost-effective in helping those affected?