Resumen

SANTOS, Rana Malva Medeiros Dos. The process of growing old with HIV/AIDS: a gestaltic approach. IGT rede [online]. 2013, vol.10, n.18, pp. 104-116. ISSN 1807-2526.

This article’s objective is to describe the theories and basic concepts on HIV/AIDS, ageing and Gestalt Therapy, followed by theoretical association of those themes. A brief description of the discovery of HIV/AIDS is made, including historic and social impacts caused by the virus. A description of the biological dynamics of HIV and how it’s transmitted is also included in this article. A biological, social and historic analysis is done in order to define senescence and reflect on the image elderly people have in society. Main concepts of Gestalt Therapy like contact, awareness and the neurotic defensive mecanisms, besides Field Theory, are also explained to support the theoretical link established between Gestalt Therapy and the process of ageing with HIV/AIDS. It’s perceived in this paper that such process mobilizes countless introjects that generate suffering to the individual. The possibilities that the person living with HIV/AIDS in senescence finds to adjust to the reality of one’s chronic morbid state, combined with the advanced stage in life, are also discussed. This article also seeks to demonstrate the possible contributions of Gestalt Therapy to improve the quality of life of the targeted group in discussion.

Palabras clave : Gestalt Therap; ageing; HIV/AIDS; neurotic adjustment.

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