Perceived barriers to health care and health behaviours: Implications for Native American elders' self-rated health

摘要

Little is known about how Native American adults appraise their health in later life. Perceived barriers to health care and health behaviours were examined among 6813 Native elders to determine their unique associations with self-rated health (SRH). Hierarchical regression results showed inability to access needed medical care predicted poorer SRH. Statistically accounting for sociodemographics and barriers to care, health behaviours predicted SRH. The current findings suggest opportunities to improve Native elders' SRH particularly via exercise and good nutrition. In turn, enhanced SRH may lead to improved quality of life.