Yoedion Ellaissi, Van Schalkwyk

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Lesotho continues to experience a severe HIV epidemic, ranking second globally in HIV prevalence after Swaziland. Older adults face unique challenges in HIV prevention, including limited awareness about HIV/AIDS, social stigma, and discrimination, which often result in delayed testing, late diagnosis, and hesitancy in seeking healthcare. This study represents the first effort in rural Lesotho to evaluate the understanding of HIV transmission, preventive measures, and treatment among elderly individuals living with HIV/AIDS. Methods: The study targeted elderly patients aged 50 years and above receiving care at four rural clinics in the Maseru district. A random selection of medical records of HIV-positive patients from each clinic was performed. Baseline knowledge assessments were conducted, followed by structured interviews both before and after a targeted educational intervention using the same validated tool.