This descriptive cross-sectional study had the objective to evaluate the level of hope in women aged 50 or older suffering from HIV/AIDS, utilizing the Herth Hope Scale. The study involved 200 HIV- positive women, within the age bracket of interest, enrolled in three STI/AIDS specialized healthcare services in the city of São Paulo. The rules of the 196/96 Resolution were met and the study was approved by the Research and Ethics Committee. Data were collected in 2010 using two instruments: subjects' characterization and the Herth Hope Scale. Results demonstrated an average score of 36.75 (±4.52) on the Herth Hope Scale, with an interval of 12 to 48. This score is below the score obtained with the same scale for various pathologies, indicating a reduced perception of hope by the sample. Nurses should provide interventions to improve hope for these people, establishing realistic goals and strengthening social support.
Women's health; HIV; Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome; Life expectancy; Aging
