BEYOND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: ALASKA NATIVE CONCEPTS OF PHYSICAL HEALTH, MOVEMENT, AND SUCCESSFUL AGING
2024
Alaska Native Concepts of Physical Health and Aging
Sample size: 162
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Maja Pedersen, Steffi Kim, Lena Thompson, Jordan Lewis
Primary Institution: University of Montana
Hypothesis
How do Alaska Native Elders conceptualize physical health and successful aging?
Conclusion
Alaska Native Elders view physical health as interconnected with cultural practices and self-care, adapting their lifestyles to maintain health.
Supporting Evidence
- Elders recognize physical changes in their bodies as signs of wisdom.
- Despite slowing down, Elders find ways to include daily movement.
- Caring for oneself when young is emphasized to maintain health.
- Elders recommend addressing health challenges with a doctor.
- Physical health is tied to living Native ways and subsistence activities.
Takeaway
Elders in Alaska believe that staying healthy is about more than just exercise; it's also about their culture and taking care of themselves.
Methodology
Thematic analysis of qualitative interviews with Alaska Native Elders.
Limitations
The study may not represent all Alaska Native perspectives as it focuses on Elders from five regions.
Participant Demographics
Alaska Native Elders from five regions of Alaska.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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