Elderly people contaminated by the HIV are increasing statistics throughout the world. This study's main aim was to describe the characteristics of AIDS in people aged 60 and over, seen at a benchmark hospital for HIV / AIDS in Ceará, Brazil, in the period between 1989 and 2004. Documentary research was performed using compulsory AIDS reporting forms available on the National Reporting Information System (SINAN) and data from the Mortality Information System (SIM). There were 107 cases reported, of which 50 patients were still alive and 57 deceased. Based on the analysis, a progressive growth in cases was observed, most of which (77.5%) were concentrated in Fortaleza. The most affected age group was the one between 60 and 69 (77.5%). Many of the individuals showed low level of schooling (44.0%). The subcategory of heterosexuals grew over time. Mortality amongst women was found to be higher (73.9%). The set of data analyzed enables one to infer that the population over 60 with AIDS in Ceará shows similar trends to other age groups and the phenomena observed throughout the country, that is: growth in cases among heterosexuals and women, and ageing and impoverishment.
HIV -1; Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome; Elderly; Senior Citizens; Epidemiology
