HONORING OUR HEALTH AND HISTORY: FRAMING BRAIN HEALTH THROUGH A CULTURALLY CELEBRATORY LENS
2024

Celebrating Black History for Brain Health

Sample size: 82 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Croff Raina, Fuller Patrice, Fennell Charles, Gordon Taryn

Primary Institution: Oregon Health & Science University

Hypothesis

Using culturally celebratory frameworks can enhance engagement in brain health research among older Black adults.

Conclusion

The SHARP Study successfully engaged older Black adults in walking social reminiscence, promoting brain health and community resilience.

Supporting Evidence

  • The SHARP Study engaged 82 participants in walking social reminiscence.
  • Participants used a walking application to connect with local Black history.
  • High retention and re-enrollment rates were observed.
  • The study highlighted the importance of community memory over individual memory loss.

Takeaway

This study shows that talking about Black history while walking can help older Black adults feel better and connect with their community.

Methodology

Participants walked 1-mile routes 3 times a week for varying durations while using a walking application that provided GPS-linked images of local Black history.

Limitations

Challenges included balancing a celebratory framework with the realities of Alzheimer's and gentrification.

Participant Demographics

Older Black adults, including those with cognitive impairments and dementia family caregivers.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.1266

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