Engaging in cultural and social activities is strongly linked to better mental health for Native Hawaiian, American Indian & Alaska Native elders, according to a new study from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa published in American Indian & Alaska Native Mental Health Research .
Researchers from the Hā Kūpuna National Resource Center for Native Hawaiian Elders analyzed survey data from more than 19,000 older adults who participated in a national assessment sponsored by the U.S. Older Americans Act . Conducted every three years, the survey helps inform planning, long–term care discussions & grant applications for programs that support Indigenous elders.
Traditions linked to better mental health
"We found that frequent participation in traditional cultural practices & social activities was strongly associated with better mental health," said Miquela Ibrao, assistant professor and one of the study's lead authors from the Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health . "In contrast, functional limitations—such as difficulties bathing, dressing, cooking & cleaning for oneself—and caregiver burden were associated with poorer mental health."
Among the three groups studied, Native Hawaiian elders reported the highest average mental health score.
"This may be because Native Hawaiian elders were most likely to regularly participate in cultural activities, as Hawaiʻi traditions like hula & mele are celebrated across the islands," said Kathryn Braun, professor of public health sciences. "Also, the Native Hawaiian sample had the highest proportion of retirees."
Ibrao said the findings highlight the value of community programs that honor cultural traditions, helping Indigenous elders stay mentally & emotionally healthy.
The research was co-authored by Jane Lee, Yan Yan Wu & Jordan Lewis of the Thompson school, along with collaborators from the Center for Rural Health at the University of North Dakota , the University of Alaska Anchorage & Southcentral Foundation.
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