Neuropsychological Functioning Among Adults Living With HIV

Abstract

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus known as HIV is an infection that attacks and weakens an individual’s immune system, and exposes them to various opportunistic diseases and medical complications. The infection also affects the individuals neuropsychological functioning.This study looked at the differences in neuropsychological functioning between a group of adults living with HIV and a group of healthy controls. One hundred and twelve (112) adults living with HIV were recruited from an Infectious Disease Unit at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. In order to enable comparisons, 60 healthy controls were selected from the University of Ghana and the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, using the convenience sampling method. The two groups were compared on memory, attention, concentration, perception, abstract reasoning, spatial neglect, depression, anxiety, somatization, and quality of life. Measures used included the CVLT-II Short Form, the Digit Span Subtest of the WAIS, the RQCST, the BSI-18, the CFQ, and WHOQOLBref. The findings indicated that adults living with HIV performed poorer than healthy controls in the areas of memory, attention, concentration, and abstract reasoning. Healthy controls also performed better than HIV patients in the physical, and psychological quality of life measures. Findings from this study are relevant to the understanding of the neuropsychological profile of adults living with HIV in Ghana. The results were discussed and recommendations have been given. Cognitive testing and behavioral assessment are recommended to be included in diagnosing, managing, and treating patients living with HIV in Ghana. of people living with HIV. This would lead to a more holistic and adequate management of their condition. A strong social support system, and adherence to antiretroviral treatment are crucial in increasing the quality of life of adults living with HIV.