Impact of Early Life Experiences on Physical Activity in Native Hawaiian Elders
Author Information
Author(s): Hwang Phoebe, Keaulana-Scott Samantha, Ho-Lastimosa Ilima, Chung-Do Jane, Braun Kathryn
Primary Institution: University of Hawaii at Manoa
Hypothesis
How do early life exposures experienced by Native Hawaiians affect their perceptions and behaviors towards physical activity?
Conclusion
Early life social norms and residential type significantly shape physical activity behaviors among Native Hawaiian elders.
Supporting Evidence
- Most elders engaged in physical activity post-retirement, with variations based on urban or rural upbringing.
- Barriers to childhood physical activity were influenced by the type of residential area participants grew up in.
- Gender roles and expectations shaped physical activity perspectives and behaviors among participants.
Takeaway
This study found that where Native Hawaiian elders grew up and their early experiences affect how they view and engage in physical activity.
Methodology
In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 Native Hawaiian elders aged 55 and older, and the data were coded by two researchers.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the self-reported nature of the interviews.
Limitations
The study may not represent all Native Hawaiian elders as it focused on specific urban and rural areas.
Participant Demographics
Participants were Native Hawaiian elders aged 55 and older from urban and rural areas in O‘ahu, Hawai‘i.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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