Resilience Through Eldership
2024

Resilience Through Eldership in Alaska Native Communities

Sample size: 72 publication

Author Information

Author(s): Lena Thompson, Steffi Kim, Jordan Lewis

Primary Institution: University of Minnesota Duluth

Hypothesis

How do Alaska Native Elders demonstrate resilience while aging in their communities?

Conclusion

Alaska Native Elders find joy and connection in their villages and use their wisdom to help overcome challenges faced by their communities.

Supporting Evidence

  • Elders described navigating life-long challenges related to experiences of racism and generational trauma.
  • They emphasized the importance of passing knowledge to younger generations.
  • Traditional practices and community engagement were highlighted as key strategies for resilience.

Takeaway

Elders in Alaska help their communities by sharing their knowledge and traditions, which makes everyone stronger and happier.

Methodology

In-person semi-structured interviews were conducted with 72 Elders from 11 communities.

Participant Demographics

Alaska Native Elders from Southeast and Interior Alaska.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.1728

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