Reducing AIDS and Substance Abuse Risk Factors Among Homeless, HIV-Infected, Drug-Using Persons

• Published in: Research on social work practice Vol. 10; no. 1; pp. 15 - 33
• Main Authors: Lewis, J. Richard, Boyle, David P., Lewis, Linda S., Evans, Maestro
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: SAGE Publications 01.01.2000
• Subjects: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome; Atlanta, Georgia; Drug abuse; Educational Programs; Health Education; Homeless people; Homelessness; Housing; Housing aid; Human immunodeficiency virus; Program Evaluation; Reduction; Risk; Risk factors; Self Help Groups; Selfhelp groups; Sexual Behavior; Substance Abuse; Treatment Programs; United States > US
• ISSN: 1049-7315; 1552-7581
• DOI: 10.1177/15527581-00010001-05

Objective: The impact of a comprehensive HIV education, housing support, and 12-step recovery program in a day treatment program for homeless persons infected with HIV was studied. Method: Participants' knowledge of HIV and substance abuse risk factors was assessed for a group of new clients and for a group of clients enrolled for 3 months using an author-developed questionnaire. Continuation of high-risk sexual and substance use behaviors was assessed using the approach. Success in maintaining housing and 12-step recovery was assessed using a retrospective chart review on a separate group of past participants. Results: Statistically significant positive changes in participants' knowledge of HIV and substance use and a decrease in self-reported high-risk behaviors were found. The retrospective chart review also indicated positive changes in housing stability and substance abuse recovery. Conclusions: Preliminary results support the conclusion that the day treatment program had positive effects on the three variables of concern.