Knowledge of human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, perception of risk, and behaviors among older adults.
In a study of knowledge and beliefs about human immunodeficiency virus among older persons, 458 senior center participants completed a questionnaire derived from the Health Belief Model. The older adults had a fairly good knowledge base about acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Although they recognized the seriousness of the disease, they generally did not believe that they were susceptible to AIDS. Those who expressed an interest in receiving AIDS education had significantly higher perceived susceptibility scores than those who did not. African American respondents were statistically more interested in AIDS education than white or Hispanic respondents. Recommendations for interventions and further research are discussed.
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D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000635:transmission; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior; D006266:Health Education; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008960:Models, Psychological; D012309:Risk-Taking; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires