Read Two Ethnic Specific Modules Of Your Choice From The Cou
Read Two Ethnic Specific Modules Of Your Choice From the Curriculum In
Read two ethnic-specific modules of your choice from the Curriculum in Ethnogeriatrics website. Highlight and summarize specifics from the ethnic group(s) you choose, including health risks and patterns, and culturally appropriate geriatric care. Support your statements with evidence from the Required Studies and your research. Cite and reference your sources in APA style.
Paper For Above instruction
The curriculum in ethnogeriatrics offers vital insights into the unique health considerations, risks, and culturally tailored approaches necessary for caring for elderly individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds. This paper examines two selected modules—Hispanic/Latino and Asian American elderly populations—to explore their specific health patterns, risks, and culturally appropriate geriatric care strategies, supported by scholarly research and evidence-based practices.
Firstly, the Hispanic/Latino elderly population presents distinct health disparities rooted in cultural, socioeconomic, and linguistic factors. Studies indicate higher prevalence rates of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and obesity within this group (Yeo, n.d.). For instance, the Diabetes among Hispanic elders is notably high, with cultural dietary preferences contributing to challenges in managing blood sugar levels. The traditional diet, rich in carbohydrates and fats, along with limited access to health education, often leads to inadequate disease management. Moreover, Latino elders are less likely to seek regular healthcare due to barriers such as language, immigration status, and cultural beliefs about illness and healthcare engagement (Kaplan et al., 2017).
Culturally appropriate geriatric care for Hispanic elders emphasizes the integration of family involvement, respect for cultural values, and language-concordant healthcare providers. For example, involving family members in treatment planning aligns with the collectivist orientation prevalent in Latino cultures. Dietary counseling should incorporate traditional foods, modifying recipes to promote health while respecting cultural preferences. Additionally, healthcare providers should employ bilingual staff and culturally sensitive communication strategies to enhance engagement and adherence (López et al., 2019).
In contrast, the Asian American elderly population exhibits varying health risks that differ based on specific ethnic subgroups such as Chinese, Filipino, or Indian elders. Common health issues include hypertension, osteoporosis, and certain cancers, with a notable emphasis on mental health and dementia awareness. Cultural attitudes toward mental health often stigmatize seeking help, leading to underdiagnosis and undertreatment of depression and cognitive decline (Yeo, n.d.). Dietary habits, such as high sodium intake in Chinese diets and reliance on herbal remedies, influence health management strategies.
Culturally competent care strategies for Asian elders incorporate understanding of traditional health beliefs and practices. For instance, integration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles in care plans can improve acceptance and compliance. Respecting elders’ preferences for herbal medicine and incorporating these into western medical treatment plans can foster trust and improve health outcomes (Lee & Kim, 2020). Furthermore, addressing language barriers by employing interpreters and cultural liaisons fosters better communication and reduces health disparities.
Both modules underline the importance of employing culturally sensitive approaches in geriatrics. For Hispanic/Latino elders, family-centered care, diet modifications that respect cultural foods, and linguistic accessibility are paramount. For Asian American elders, understanding traditional health beliefs, incorporating alternative practices, and addressing mental health stigmas are critical. These strategies contribute to reducing health disparities, improving patient satisfaction, and enhancing overall health outcomes for these diverse populations.
In summary, ethnogeriatric care must be tailored to the specific cultural, social, and health needs of ethnic older adults. The modules on Hispanic/Latino and Asian American elders provide frameworks for culturally competent practices that incorporate traditional beliefs, family involvement, and language considerations. Healthcare providers equipped with this knowledge can deliver more effective, respectful, and personalized care, ultimately promoting better health and well-being among diverse elderly populations.
References
Kaplan, R., Greenfield, S., & Vickrey, B. (2017). Strategies for improving care in culturally diverse elderly populations. Journal of Geriatric Care, 10(3), 45-55.
López, A., Reisine, S., & Purnell, L. (2019). Culturally tailored interventions for Latino elders with diabetes. Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health, 21(4), 673-680.
Lee, R., & Kim, S. (2020). Integrating Traditional Chinese Medicine in geriatric care: Strategies and outcomes. Journal of Asian Health, 12(2), 150-160.
Yeo, G. (Ed.). (n.d.). Curriculum in ethnogeriatrics. Retrieved from https://www.ethnogeriatrics.org