HIV was once considered a terminal diagnosis. However, this once life-threatening disease is now a manageable condition. People diagnosed with HIV are living longer, healthier lives thanks to advances in treatment and specialized care.

That said, new diagnoses continue each year, particularly among younger adults and underrepresented communities, a trend that challenges the myth that HIV is an older person's disease.

"Many Americans believe HIV is no longer a serious health concern," said Helen Everett, a CVS Specialty pharmacist who supports patients across a range of complex and specialty conditions, including HIV. "This misconception — and lingering stigma — can delay testing, diagnosis and treatment, key actions that can help patients live longer and thrive."

What living with HIV looks like now

Living with HIV in 2026 looks very different from living with the disease in the '80s and '90s during the AIDS epidemic. Now, HIV is no longer a death sentence, and those diagnosed with the condition can expect to live as long as someone without HIV.

In fact, more than half of the people living with HIV in the U.S., many of whom were diagnosed in their 20s and 30s, are now age 50 or older thanks to early detection and decades of consistent treatment.

Earlier HIV treatments required taking multiple pills a day and often caused nausea, vomiting and other issues. With such a high pill burden and side effects that negatively impact daily life, it's not hard to see how patient adherence suffers.

Modern HIV treatment regimens are much simpler.

"Today's treatments often involve taking one pill each day with fewer side effects," said Everett. "This makes it easier to stick with the therapy and keep the virus at an undetectable level, meaning it cannot be passed on through sex."

Long-term health with HIV requires compassionate care

Testing, diagnosis and treatment are key to living with HIV for years to come. However, establishing a strong patient-pharmacist relationship with a compassionate specialist is vital to long-term health as patients age.

"Long-term health takes long-term commitment, especially as we age and our needs change," said Everett. "As people are living longer, things like comorbidities and possible medication interactions have to be considered. That's why it's crucial to receive personalized care for healthy aging, especially if you're living with HIV."

Christopher Hooper, a patient who has lived with HIV for decades, knows firsthand how far HIV treatment and patient outlook have come. He credits his treatment adherence and engagement in his care to his long-standing trusted relationship with his pharmacist.

"It's important to me to feel supported not only with comprehensive medication management and helping me stay on track, but that relationship also helps with my confidence, which affects my overall outlook."

Know your status and find specialized care

The first step to getting treatment is getting tested.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. For those with risk factors, the CDC recommends getting tested at least once a year.

No matter your age, knowing your status can help you seek treatment from specialty providers who offer understanding, compassionate care. To get tested, head to your nearest CVS Health clinic. To learn more, visit CVShealth.com.