The study aim was to describe the roles and health issues of older people (50 years and older) who have offspring who are infected or deceased due to HIV, or who have HIV themselves. In addition the effects of the introduction of HIV treatment on the lives and wellbeing of people aged 50 and above was investigated. Specifically, the aims of the study were to describe the effects on physical and mental health, household income and social situation as well as the tasks and responsibilities of older people infected and/or affected by HIV.