Aging & Social Change: Eleventh Interdisciplinary Conference

Abstract

Social work intervention plays an important role in providing psychosocial support to women ageing with HIV. Women’s experiences were explored and master narratives that formed cultural norms challenged. Elements of the global definition of Social Work in relation to practice with this population were critically examined. The aim is to highlight experiences and raise awareness, arousing national attention and action, as conversations addressing ageing are scarce. An increased ageing population has caused economic and social challenges. A critical approach that leads to social justice can be implemented in service provision for women ageing with HIV. Intervention shows anti-oppressive practice can restore power. Intervention reveals social work a safe space to foster consciousness raising among women. Feminist participatory action research was used with interviews and talking circle methods. Talking circles created a space for consciousness raising and unsilencing issues. Women also planned and executed action to regain their power, evaluation was done through reflection. Women ageing with HIV possess the ability to negotiate their challenges, build strength and resilience through consciousness raising and support. Limitations affected this process while interacting in outdoor spaces, as well as geographic location. National conversations must include women ageing with HIV, and social workers have a role in challenging structural inefficiencies that cause social injustice. A social justice approach was used in intervention and new knowledge created for further research. Recommendations for future practice lies in an intergenerational approach, creation of safe spaces, restructuring social service delivery and inclusion of a gendered perspective from policy standpoint.

Presenters

Samantha Thomas
Teaching Assistant, Department of Behavioural Sciences/Social Work Unit, University of the West Indies St Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago