Seeking serenity: living with HIV/AIDS in rural Western Canada

The experience of living with HIV infection in rural Alberta, Canada is described to better understand the perceptions of health in a rural setting, the processes involved in accessing care, the challenges and benefits associated with rural life, and the relationship between personal beliefs and values and the nature of the disease.

Abstract

Rural residents perceive and enact health in distinct ways. Caregivers must understand that health usually represents a concern only after it has failed and self-initiated attempts to overcome problems have been unsuccessful. Participants in this study articulated their need to live in a society that acknowledges their diversity and honours their rights to access health and social supports in the community. Service providers may enhance care and promote health of this aggregate through education, attention to professional responsibilities, fostering resilient communities, and advocating for vulnerable members of society. Further research needs to be conducted in order to learn more about the relationships between HIV infection and rural living and the needs of people who live in such situations. With this knowledge, appropriate healthcare services can be developed and implemented to enhance the wellbeing and quality of life for individuals, families, and communities.