700 Section - Physical activity and exercise for older people living with HIV – The perceptions of health care professionals

Objectives : This study draws on a series of community-based focus-group interviews (FGIs) with healthcare professionals to examine their perceptions of physical activity and exercise among older people living with HIV (OPLWH). By exploring their attitudes and beliefs, the study provides insight into how different categories of healthcare providers understand and approach physical activity within this population, thereby illuminating variations in perspectives across those offering holistic care to OPLWH.

Design: The study employed a phenomenological qualitative design, using in-depth focus-group interviews to gain a comprehensive understanding of healthcare workers’ perceptions of physical activity and exercise for older people living with HIV (OPLWH).

Results: Three overarching themes emerged from the discussions: factors influencing exercise adherence; general considerations for exercise programmes for OPLWH; and recommendations for exercise prescription for this population. The findings underscore the critical role of the multidisciplinary healthcare team positioned at the forefront of care. Ongoing assessment of OPLWH, along with the creation of an enabling and supportive environment, should be prioritised when developing and implementing appropriate physical activity and exercise programmes. Furthermore, challenges such as HIV-related stigma and comorbidities associated with ageing must be addressed to ensure that intervention programmes are sustainable, particularly in resource-poor communities.

Conclusion: Physical activity and exercise strategies tailored to OPLWH are essential in the current era of holistic HIV care. This paper emphasises the vital role of the multidisciplinary healthcare team at the forefront of service delivery. Ongoing assessment of OPLWH, together with the provision of a supportive and enabling environment, must be considered when developing and implementing appropriate physical activity and exercise programmes.