The relationship between health-related quality of life and neuropsychological profiles of older adults with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

Abstract

Advances in the pharmacological treatment of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have resulted in an exponential increase in the number of older individuals living with HIV. However, despite a longer lifespan, milder forms of neuropsychological deficits have been reported. This has implications for the quality of life and everyday functioning in older cohorts with HIV. The aim of this exploratory study was to investigate the relationship between health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and neuropsychological outcomes in older adults with HIV. Other study objectives included exploring the associations between neuropsychological performance and HRQoL with clinical variables. Participants were recruited through convenience sampling at a semi-urban community clinic. Thirty-four older individuals with HIV were administered a socio-demographic questionnaire, the EQ-5D 5L HRQoL measure and comprehensive neuropsychological battery, comprising the Dementia Rating Scale-2 (DRS-2); Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT); Stroop Colour and Word Test, and the Trail Making Test of the Delis-Kaplain Executive Function System (DKEFS TMT). Results indicated specific, significant associations between self-reported anxiety/depression, pain/discomfort, self-care, and neuropsychological outcomes. Also, significant associations were noted between clinical variables and four of the neuropsychological measures and two of the health-related quality-of-life variables. Exploratory cluster analysis revealed that age and clinical variables may serve as possible moderator variables.