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Learning Objective 1: identify 3 limitations of the use of the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System(BRFSS)survey questions in elderly Hmong
Learning Objective 2: describe the culturally appropriate adaptation of three health interventions that may support mental health in elderly Hmong
Method/Results: A survey based on the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) was mailed to 324 Hmong residing in one county located in the Midwest with a 52% return rate, including 36 elders. A Hmong interpreter was available to assist elderly Hmong in survey completion. Responses were clarified by members of the Hmong elder community, Hmong health interpreters, and Hmong health providers to support culturally appropriate interpretation of the data.
Results: Of the 36 elders, 14 were male, 22 were female, and 27 were assisted in survey completion. In the last 2 years, 32 elders visited a health provider, 18 reported at least one chronic disease, and 25 indicated “fair health”. There were eight elders who reported being “a little satisfied” or “dissatisfied” with life with 11 elders indicating they experienced many days of feeling “sad or depressed”, “worried or anxious”, and “lonely or alone”. While 27 elders indicated that they exercised regularly, and 29 elders were aware of cancer screening, little socialization was documented with peers or outside of the home setting.
Conclusion: Elderly Hmong understanding of concepts assessed by the BRFSS was limited. Respondents were health consciousness, and data on mental health issues were consistent with other research. Culturally appropriate interventions defined by Hmong elderly include both exercise and socialization, which is supported by research. Bringing elderly Hmong together to exercise may be accomplished by engaging family members and promoting exercise using a traditional storycloth (pa ndau) depicting ways in which the elderly can walk and socialize with others.