Geriatrics

Ethnogeriatrics

Models of Service

Culturally Appropriate Models of Service

List of service programs

There is a plethora of service programs across the state of Alaska which have focused service models. For a complete list see: “Long term care needs of Alaska Native elders,” pages 52–58, Chapter 5, Facility and Service Models, which was prepared by Kay Branch from the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium.

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

Models of Best Practice

The following paper provides a complete description of good models and potential best practices: “Achieving Best Practice in Long Term Care for Alaska Native and American Indian Elders,” by Kay Branch.

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
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