Older gay and bisexual men living with HIV (OGBMLH) are more likely to experience depression and loneliness, which can lead to negative health outcomes. This mixed-methods research study will assess the feasibility and acceptability of the Bridge to Belonging (B2B) intervention. B2B is a peer-delivered, manualized program designed to increase engagement in LGBTQ+-affirming elder services and thereby reduce loneliness and depression among OGBMLH. The program utilizes a) cognitive behavioral therapy-based Friendship Enrichment Program (FEP) to build social skills; b) Peer Mentoring (PM) to model and support engagement in community services; and c) connecting participants to affirming elder services such as meal programs, bereavement groups, social activities, etc. Interventions like B2B are essential to the NIH's goal of improving access to behavioral interventions through advances in HIV/AIDS research.
HIV+ and provide evidence or documentation of HIV+ status
Willing to release HIV-related health records
Self-identify as a man who has sex with men
Able to provide informed consent in English
HIV-
Does not self-identify as a man who has sex with men
Is less than 50 years old
Scores less than 2 on the PHQ-2 AND scores less than 4 on the UCLA Shortened Loneliness Scale
Fenway Community Health
Lead sponsor
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Collaborator