Hawaiian elders are treasured and revered for their profound and invaluable role in strengthening families and sustaining the rich tapestry of Hawaiian culture and language. But despite their significance, they have the poorest health outcomes compared to their counterparts from other ethnic groups in Hawai‘i. They are at the highest risk of developing dementia as they age.
In 2023, Papa Ola Lōkahi (POL), the Hawaiian Board of Health, followed the Healthy Brain Institute (HBI) Road Map for Indian Country to develop the Road Map for Native Hawaiians to inform the state plan of public health strategies to specifically address their unique needs.
Using cultural sensitivity and understanding, POL conducted focus groups with kūpuna and stakeholders to gain information about service barriers and gaps, caregiver and patient support, and culturally relevant recommendations.
The HBI Road Map for Indian Country highlighted important themes that guided POL’s inquiries when it engaged with advisory board members, Hawaiian elders and focus group participants. The process was grounded in cultural values, with utmost respect for Hawaiian elders, sensitivity toward their family/caregivers and mindfulness that trust is essential to developing and sustaining collaborative relationships.
POL utilized insights and recommendations from this process to assist the Hawai‘i Department of Health Executive Office on Aging (EOA) in updating its State Plan on Aging. This initiative aims to enhance the development and implementation of the Road Map for Native Hawaiians. Dr. Adrienne Dillard, PhD., CEO of Kula No Nā Po‘e Hawai‘i (KULA) of Papakōlea, is one of five members on the advisory board involved in the road map project and is currently leading its implementation through a grant from the EOA.
This “living document” can change and grow over time, and is designed to bring together kūpuna, families, caregivers and service agencies to help support those affected by dementia in Native Hawaiian communities. It also includes suggestions for overcoming obstacles that prevent access to essential resources.
Upcoming KULA road map conversations will be held on O‘ahu and Lāna‘i, and in Kona and Hāna. KULA will continue caregiver training on O‘ahu. For information a about a meeting or caregiver training, contact KULA at kula.papakolea@gmail.com or 808-649-3725. Access the Native Hawaiian Road Map at papaolalokahi.org/program/kupuna-brain-health.
PAPA OLA LO¯ KAHI (nonprofit)
677 Ala Moana Blvd., Ste. 720, Honolulu, HI 96813
808-597-6550 | manao@papaolalokahi.org
papaolalokahi.org
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