Resumen
Objective: To identify vulnerabilities of elderly people with HIV/AIDS and the trajectory
that they follow until reaching the diagnosis of the disease. Method: Qualitative research
conducted in specialized clinics in the state of São Paulo, from January to June 2011.
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 elderly people who were found to be
infected with the virus at the age of 60 years or older. The interviews were analyzed using
content analysis. Results: In this process four categories emerged, then analyzed with
reference to the theoretical framework of vulnerability. Conclusion: Late diagnosis of
HIV infection or AIDS among the elderly happens in the secondary or tertiary service.
Issues related to sexual life of the elderly are only questioned by health professionals after
the diagnosis, also the time that condom use becomes absolute. It is believed that the
investigation of the vulnerability of the elderly to HIV/AIDS allows for carrying out
appropriate interventions for this population. (Extraído del docimento)