Ageing and Development 29

Older people's exclusion from global targets on HIV is putting millions of people at risk. Rachel Albone examines new evidence showing how much older people are affected by the epidemic, and argues for their inclusion in any new targets.

The year 2011 marks a milestone for the HIV epidemic. It is 30 years since the first case of AIDS was diagnosed, 10 years since the groundbreaking UN General Assembly Special Session (UNGASS)on HIV and AIDS and the signing of the Declaration of Commitment, and five years since the international community set the target of "universal access to comprehensive prevention programmes, treatment, care and support".

In June 2011, UN member states will meet again to review global progress in responding to the HIV epidemic and agree the future direction of the response.

The high-level meeting provides a vital opportunity to make sure that people aged 50 and over are specifically included in any new commitments and targets.

Why should this age group be included? The fact is that older people are hugely affected by HIV, mainly in two ways - as carers of family members with HIV and orphaned children, and as people at risk of infection themselves.

If they are ignored in the response, how can the children in their care be properly fed, clothed and educated? How can they advise young people about safer sex or protect themselves? How can they
receive the treatment, care and support they need?

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