Factors associated with the social participation of individuals hospitalized with HIV/AIDS

Abstract

Introduction: HIV/AIDS imposes both physical and mental burdens that may hinder the social participation of affected individuals. Understanding the factors associated with social participation in this population enables the development of effective preventive and rehabilitative strategies. Objective: To assess social participation among people living with HIV/AIDS who were hospitalized and to examine whether demographic, clinical, psychological, and functionality-related characteristics are associated with their social participation. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study evaluating individuals diagnosed with HIV/AIDS upon hospital admission. The following aspects were assessed: clinical characteristics (time since diagnosis and CD4+ T-cell count), demographic data (age, physical activity level), social participation (LIFE-HABITS 3.1), cognitive function (Mini-Mental State Examination), psychological status (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), handgrip strength (Handgrip Test), respiratory muscle strength (manovacuometry), and postural balance (MINIBest Test). Pearson or Spearman correlation tests were used (p < 0.05). Results: Ten participants were included (90% female; mean age 42.3 years). Significant restrictions in social participation were observed in the domains of recreation and education. Additionally, respiratory muscle strength was associated (p < 0.05) with the mobility subdomain (R = 0.68); cognitive function was associated with the responsibilities subdomain and total score (R = 0.62 and R = 0.63, respectively); anxiety was negatively associated with the employment subdomain (R = -0.73); and age was negatively associated with the employment subdomain (R = -0.65). Conclusion: Social participation was found to be restricted in this population, and factors such as cognitive impairment, increased anxiety, and decreased inspiratory muscle strength were associated with lower levels of social participation.