“Don't Tell Nobody Nothing”: A Phenomenological Study on Fear of HIV Disclosure Among Older African Americans During Incarceration Living in Kentucky, USA

The intersections of HIV with aging, incarceration, and racial disparities have been well studied, but little is known about the lived incarceration experiences of older African American persons living with HIV. This phenomenological study examined the fear of HIV disclosure among older African Americans living in Kentucky who have experienced incarceration. Based on the interviews analyzed, five main themes were identified: experiences with fear, experiences pertaining to confidentiality, experiences with disclosure, experiences with stigma, and the desire to be accepted. These themes demonstrate HIV disclosure fear within incarceration settings and the desire for support and services. Findings suggest that there should be more efforts to increase HIV knowledge and awareness within incarceration settings. Participants shared that having a support network alleviates isolation. We recommend that correctional settings implement policies to protect confidentiality violations and facilitate groups to help foster a more supportive environment for individuals living with HIV.