This research study includes two components: a survey of individuals aging with HIV, and focus groups for service providers.
About the Survey
Purpose: To gather information from people aging with HIV in Ontario (age 50+) on their current and anticipated needs for financial information, services, and support. Study findings will help us understand how educational programs, support services and policies can be created or adapted in a way that is useful to older adults living with HIV and fosters financial empowerment.
Participants: 180 people living with HIV, age 50+, in Ontario, Canada
Timeline: February 2024 -March 2025
Methods: Participants will complete a survey (45-60 minutes), either independently online, or on the phone with the assistance of a research coordinator. Participants will be compensated for their time. Study data will be kept strictly confidential.
Research Ethics: This study has been reviewed by, and received ethics clearance through, the University of Toronto Research Ethics Board (Protocol # 45310).
Interested in participating?
Complete the study pre-screening:
- Option 1: Online pre-screening. Click on this link to begin: https://qualtricsxmtx72k5k8g.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4Sdfvv0zH8LIcuy
- Option 2: Telephone pre-screening. Contact the Research Coordinator by phone 416-513-0440 ext. 234 or by email* to set up a time clessels@realizecanada.org *The security of information sent by email cannot be guaranteed. Please do not communicate personal sensitive information by email.
If you are eligible to participate, you will receive an email including a unique link to the survey or you will be able to schedule an appointment with the Research Coordinator who will administer the survey by phone.
More information
For more information about the study, contact the Research Coordinator, Christina Lessels, at 416-513-0440 ext. 234 or clessels@realizecanada.org or contact one of the Co-Principal Investigators:
Dr. Sergio Rueda, Associate Professor, Termerty Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto – sergio.rueda@utoronto.ca
Kate Murzin, Director of National Programs, Realize – kmurzin@realizecanada.org
About the Focus Groups for Service Providers
Purpose: Focus groups will explore service providers’ knowledge of income and benefit programs available to older adults; experience providing navigational support to clients accessing these programs; awareness of and frequency of referrals to financial empowerment services and supports; and the availability of financial education, tools, services and supports within HIV care settings.
Study findings will help us understand how educational programs, support services and policies can be created or adapted in a way that is useful to older adults living with HIV and fosters financial empowerment.
Participants: 40 service providers working in community-based HIV organizations and/or HIV clinics across Ontario
Timeline: February 2024- March 2025
Methods: Participants will join one 90-minute online focus group (over Zoom). Upcoming focus groups will be held on the following dates:
Option 1: September 24, 10 – 11:30 am ET
Option 2: September 2024 (date and time TBC)
Research Ethics: This study has been reviewed by, and received ethics clearance through, the University of Toronto Research Ethics Board (Protocol #45310). Study data will be kept strictly confidential.
Interested in participating?
Contact the Research Coordinator by phone 416-513-0440 ext. 234 or by email* clessels@realizecanada.org to register for a focus group.
*The security of information sent by email cannot be guaranteed. Please do not communicate personal sensitive information by email.