Feasibility and Acceptability of a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)-Based Group Intervention to Reduce Inflammation in Older People With HIV

This study is a pilot randomized controlled trial, which will include 50 older people with HIV as participants. Blocks (n = 4) will be 1:1 randomized to either the group intervention or information-only control. The established 12-week group intervention consists of evidence-based traditional and contemporary CBT strategies. Each week will focus on a distinct theme, including: 1.) Domains of Healthy Aging; 2.) Stress and anxiety; 3.) Adherence and Engagement in Primary/Preventative Care; 4.) Depression and Distress; 5.) Physical Activity; 6.) Stigma/Self-Compassion; 7.) Substance Use; 8.) Acceptance of Uncertainty and Uncomfortable Emotions; 9.) Diet; 10.) Behavioral Activation; 11.) Frailty and Memory/Cognition; and 12.) Wrap-Up and Maintaining Gains.

All participants, including those in the intervention group and in the education-only group, will attend virtual baseline and follow-up appointments, complete computerized self-report measures (REDCap) at baseline and follow-up, a structured diagnostic interview at baseline, and a blood draw appointment at baseline and follow-up. Participants in the education-only group will receive a one-time brochure with information on living with HIV, healthy aging, and healthy behaviors when they attend the baseline blood draw appointment.

Aim 1: Assess the feasibility and acceptability of an evidence-based CBT group intervention, developed for older people with HIV, and research methods in a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT).

Aim 2: Explore changes in a.) inflammation biomarkers (i.e., interleukin-6 [IL-6] and C-reactive protein [CRP]), b.) psychological distress (i.e., general distress, HIV-specific stress, and depressive and anxiety symptoms), and c.) health risk behaviors (i.e., tobacco-smoking, alcohol use, sedentary behaviors, and poor diet quality) in the intervention group versus an education-only group.