Aging

The population of older individuals with bleeding disorders has been cause for concern for some time, due to the increasing rate of deaths due to HIV in the 1980s. Fortunately, much progress has been made in treatments such as replacement therapy and antiviral drugs and in the prevalence of specialized healthcare centers for such diseases.

However, this aging population has brought new challenges to hematologists (doctors who specialize in bleeding disorders) and other healthcare professionals. In some cases, acquired bleeding is a challenge; in others, autoimmune diseases manifest themselves as a result of the bleeding disorder or its treatment.

Getting support

If you have a bleeding disorder, you can find the care and support you need at hemophilia treatment center (HTC). An HTC can provide you with specialized care, education and support necessary for you to cope with your condition, especially as you get older. The healthcare teams at HTCs include hematologists, nurses, social workers, physical therapists and dentists.

There are more than 100 federally funded HTCs throughout the United States. Locate an HTC in your area

The National Hemophilia Foundation’s (NHF’s) Chapter Centers can also be a good place to turn to for information and support. Visit the NHF Web site to find one near you.