Abstract
The literature shows that there are important differences between women and men in the underlying mechanisms of transmission of HIV infection and AIDS, as well as in the social and economic consequences of HIV/AIDS. These stem from sexual behaviour and socially constructed ‘gender’ differences between women and men in roles and responsibilities. Despite the fact that numerous gender-related sociocultural factors influence HIV/AIDS protective behaviours, little gender specificity is included in HIV prevention among the elderly. In order to close this gap, this study explored gender-related perceptions of risk of HIV infection among elderly men and women of Ga-Rankuwa in Gauteng Province, South Africa. This qualitative study used purposive sampling to conduct three focus group interviews with 22 women and 10 men who were above 60 years of age. Findings revealed that both genders blame each other for the spreading of HIV/AIDS. Male participants displayed the tendency to have multiple partners, whereas females accepted that males are promiscuous. Mixed perceptions about disclosure of HIV status were found. Condom use was a challenge, as men did not know how to introduce it with their wives, and some female participants indicated that men are resistant to using condoms. The elderly men also believed that women will have sex in exchange for money. It is concluded that there is a need for substantial behaviour change among both elderly males and females, which should address gender power relations. More in-depth and extensive research in this area is recommended.
Highlights
Gender roles and relations are increasingly recognised as one of the fundamental forces driving the rapid spread of HIV infection and exacerbating the impact of AIDS
In order to close this gap, this study explored gender-related perceptions of risk of HIV infection among elderly men and women of Ga-Rankuwa in Gauteng Province, South Africa
Many authors are of the opinion that patriarchal African culture as well as gender inequalities play a significant role in the transmission of HIV/AIDS (Deribe, Woldemichael, Njau, Yakob, Biadgilign & Amberbir 2010; Mofolo 2010)
Summary
Gender roles and relations are increasingly recognised as one of the fundamental forces driving the rapid spread of HIV infection and exacerbating the impact of AIDS. The stereotypical behaviour of some men, together with unfavourable cultural prescriptions such as submissiveness, sexual subordination, obedience and willingness, make women in particular more vulnerable to becoming infected with HIV (Van den Berg & Van Rooyen 2007). Evidence on the social construction of manhood suggests that the health of males is indirectly affected by risky behaviour, increasing their female partners’ vulnerability to sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV (Peacock, Redpath, Weston, Evans, Daub & Greig 2008). According to Medjuck (2008), women face biological vulnerability to HIV infection, many of the underlying factors relating to the high rates of HIV infection among them are socially constructed. Many authors are of the opinion that patriarchal African culture as well as gender inequalities play a significant role in the transmission of HIV/AIDS (Deribe, Woldemichael, Njau, Yakob, Biadgilign & Amberbir 2010; Mofolo 2010)
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