A PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY OF SUCCESSFUL AGING AMONG ALASKA NATIVE ELDERS IN NORTHWEST ALASKA

摘要

This qualitative, phenomenological study sought to establish a deeper understanding of how Alaska Native Elders in Northwest Alaska understand and experience successful aging to inform program development and service delivery. The present project was embedded within a larger community-based participatory research study and conducted in collaboration with community members. The 14 community-nominated Elder participants universally identified engagement with family and community, self-awareness and care, and a sense of gratitude as essential elements of successful aging. Elders who age successfully listened to and learned from their Elders, enact their traditional values and practices, and pass their wisdom and knowledge to future generations. The results provide a culture and context-specific understanding of successful aging that will help communities develop Elder-centered programs and service delivery and contribute to the Afield of successful aging by presenting a perspective of successful aging that is not currently represented in the literature.