People living with HIV are experiencing longer life expectancy due to effective antiretroviral therapy; however, they may develop age-related conditions earlier than the general population. This prospective observational study aims to evaluate frailty, sarcopenia, nutritional status, cognitive function, and functional performance in adults aged 40 years and older living with HIV and to compare them with age- and sex-matched healthy controls.

With the widespread use of antiretroviral therapy, individuals living with HIV have achieved near-normal life expectancy. However, emerging evidence suggests that chronic inflammation, immune activation, and long-term treatment exposure may contribute to accelerated or premature aging processes. Frailty, sarcopenia, cognitive decline, and functional impairment have been increasingly reported in middle-aged and older adults living with HIV.

This prospective observational cohort study aims to perform a comprehensive geriatric assessment in adults aged 40 years and older living with HIV and to compare the findings with age- and sex-matched healthy controls. The assessment will include evaluation of frailty, sarcopenia, nutritional status, cognitive function, and functional performance using standardized clinical tools.

The primary objective is to determine the prevalence and characteristics of geriatric vulnerabilities in adults aged ≥40 years living with HIV. Secondary objectives include identifying factors associated with frailty and functional impairment in this population.

Age ≥ 40 years

Confirmed diagnosis of HIV infection (for HIV group)

On stable antiretroviral therapy for at least 6 months (for HIV group)

HIV-negative status confirmed by medical history or testing (for control group)

Ability to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

Acute infection or hospitalization within the last 4 weeks

Known active malignancy under treatment

Severe psychiatric disorder interfering with assessment

Severe cognitive impairment preventing participation

Adults aged 40 years and older living with HIV who are followed in the infectious diseases outpatient clinic and age- and sex-matched healthy controls recruited from the community or hospital staff.