Methodological Insights From an Experience-Based Co-Design Method Applied to a Study of Older Adults Living with HIV’s Perspectives on Virtual Geriatric Care

Abstract

This paper outlines the application of Experience-Based Co-Design (EBCD) to explore the perspectives of older adults living with HIV regarding virtual geriatric care. The study focuses on identifying the unique needs, challenges, and preferences of this population in the context of remote healthcare delivery models. EBCD, a participatory research method, engages service users, healthcare providers, and stakeholders in co-designing solutions to improve healthcare services. By involving participants throughout the research process, the approach ensures that resulting interventions are informed by real-world experiences, enhancing their likelihood of acceptance and effectiveness. The methodology includes in-depth interviews, focus groups, and journey mapping with older adults living with HIV to gather data. Through collaborative discussions, care gaps were identified, and key areas for improvement in virtual care were highlighted. Active participation from healthcare professionals ensured that these findings were translated into actionable solutions. Practical insights were also gained on fostering an inclusive and respectful environment for marginalized populations, ensuring that their voices were central to the co-design process. This study demonstrates that EBCD is an effective method for engaging older adults living with HIV in the design of virtual care interventions, leading to patient-centered solutions that address both clinical and psychosocial needs. Key contributions of the study include the development of a framework for applying EBCD in virtual geriatric care, identification of critical care gaps in this context, and the promotion of inclusive practices for vulnerable populations. The findings suggest that EBCD can play a significant role in advancing health equity and improving the quality of care for older adults living with HIV, especially as virtual healthcare continues to evolve.