Culturally Appropriate Models of Service
The elements or principles that constitute best practices for providing care to Alaska Native older adults are:
- Integrating Native values
- Including traditional arts, crafts, and ceremonies
- Providing Native foods and the opportunity to be involved with subsistence activities
- Hiring Native staff to operate the programs and interact with the Alaska Native older adults in their own language
- Providing case management that is culturally appropriate
- Utilizing a Native advisory board and involving Elders
- Providing support for the families to assist them in care giving roles
Best Practice
There are several tribally run services for Alaska Native older adults that are good models and are potential best practices available within the Alaska tribal health system.
- Tanana Chiefs Conference Home Care Services
- Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation, Senior and Disability Services
- Southcentral Foundation Elder Program
- Bristol Bay Area Health Corporation, Helping Hands Program
- Marrulut Enlit Assisted Living (MEAL) Dillingham
- Norton Sound Health Corporation, Quyanna Care Center
