Examining Long-Term Service and Support Needs and Preferences of Native Hawaiian Elders: A Mixed-Method Approach

Abstract

Objective: The Native Hawaiian population experiences numerous disparities in health and income. Using a mixed-method research (MMR) design, we summarize findings from three phases of an MMR approach used to uncover kūpuna (elder) long-term service and support (LTSS) needs and care preferences. Methods: Key informants in Hawaiian health were interviewed, secondary analyses of large state data sets were conducted, and kūpuna and “ohana (family) caregivers were engaged in listening sessions. Results: Quantitative data confirmed numerous health disparities experienced by older Native Hawaiians, whereas qualitative data exposed their limited knowledge of this poor health profile and revealed their historical and contemporary experiences with discrimination in education, employment, and health care. Hawaiian culture was identified as a continued source of resilience in support of elders and family caregiving regardless of geographic setting. Discussion: We suggest three practice, policy, and research directions that offer the potential to respond to and improve kūpuna health and service use.

La Pertenencia Étnica y sus Implicaciones en la Vejez: Revisión Sistemática

“…Hay brechas de salud y bienestar entre indígenas y no indígenas, los primeros tienen tasas más altas de enfermedades crónicas, enfermedades prevenibles y discapacidad, esperanza de vida más corta, menor L infraestructura y atención a la salud, la alimentación, saneamiento y vivienda, (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2019;Browne et. al, 2020;Lee et al, 2021).…”