How stigma and social support affect cognitive function in older women with HIV

Influences of Stigma and Social Support on Cognitive Function Among Older Women Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-11009236

This study is looking at how stigma related to HIV and gender affects the thinking skills of older women living with HIV/AIDS, and it also wants to see if having good social support can help protect their mental health.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-11009236 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of HIV-related and gender-based stigma on cognitive function among older women living with HIV/AIDS. It aims to understand how these stigmas impact mental health and cognitive abilities, while also exploring the role of social support as a potential protective factor. The study will analyze data from the Women's Interagency Study, which has been tracking the health of women living with HIV since 1993, using validated assessments to measure cognitive function and stigma. By focusing on this often-overlooked population, the research seeks to provide insights that could improve health outcomes for older women with HIV.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older women aged 50 and above who are living with HIV/AIDS.

Not a fit: Patients who are not women or those under the age of 50 may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved support strategies that enhance cognitive function and overall quality of life for older women living with HIV.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that stigma can negatively impact health outcomes, but this specific focus on older women with HIV is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.