Effect of relationship factors on safer sex decisions in older inner-city women.

Objectives: Heterosexual transmission of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in older women is on the rise, yet little is known about safer sex practices in these women. We sought to determine the prevalence of and effect of relationship factors on safer sex practices among older women living in a high HIV incidence region. Methods: In a cross-sectional study at an ambulatory medicine clinic of a large inner-city hospital, participants were women over age 50 seeking medical services at the study site. Measurements included (1) partner trust, (2) dependence on partner, (3) personally obtaining condoms, (4) safer sex (frequent condom use or abstinence), (5) knowledge of condom efficacy, and (6) perceived HIV risk. Results: Of 155 participants in a current relationship, 81% were sexually active; however, only 13% of these women used condoms frequently. No significant differences were found between participants who did and did not practice safer sex with respect to their age, race, employment, marital stat...