In this episode of Healthy Desert Healthy You, host Will Dean sits down with Jax Kelly, Founder and President of the Aging and HIV Institute and President of Let’s Kick ASS Palm Springs, for an insightful conversation on aging with HIV. Jax shares his personal journey following his HIV diagnosis, how medical advances have transformed HIV into a manageable chronic condition, and why people living with HIV are now aging in unprecedented numbers. The discussion explores the intersection of HIV services and aging services, the role of the Older Americans Act, and California’s efforts to recognize older adults with HIV as a population of greatest social need. Together, they highlight the importance of education, advocacy, community engagement, and inclusive planning to reduce stigma, address isolation, and ensure healthier aging for all.

Takeaways:

1. Advances in HIV treatment now allow people to live long, full lives
2. The population of people aging with HIV continues to grow
3. Aging and HIV services have historically operated in separate silos
4. The Aging and HIV Institute bridges gaps between these systems
5. California recognizes older adults with HIV as a population of greatest social need
6. Education and prevention remain critical for all age groups
7. Community engagement reduces isolation and improves outcomes
8. Advocacy helps ensure inclusive aging and health policies

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