JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Older adults living with HIV face challenges accessing regular geriatric care, and while virtual care services could offer a solution, they may come with limitations.

Objective:

This study aimed to co-design a culturally appropriate virtual care model tailored to their needs using Experience-Based Co-Design (EBCD) methodology.

Methods:

We employed a qualitative EBCD approach with 19 older adults living with HIV. The process involved three phases: identifying needs through interviews and questionnaires, co-developing a care model prototype through focus groups and a workshop, and refining the model using feedback from a World Cafe format. Data was analyzed using thematic content analysis.

Results:

The co-design process led to a prototype virtual care model that directly addressed participants' key needs. These included personalized communication methods, simplified technology interfaces for easier access, and culturally responsive care practices. Participants emphasized the importance of privacy in virtual consultations, flexible scheduling to accommodate health fluctuations, and ongoing support for managing both HIV and aging-related conditions. Their feedback shaped a model designed to bridge service gaps, offering a more inclusive, accessible, and patient-centered approach to virtual geriatric care.

Conclusions:

The study co-designed a potential virtual geriatric care model, grounded in the experiences of older adults living with HIV. By integrating participants' insights throughout the design process, the model offers a promising approach to improving care for this vulnerable population. Future directions for research to test this model are proposed.