| Learning Objective #1: Describe social and contextual resources used to promote health in urban elderly | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Describe social and contextual issues relevant for building community interventions |
Objective: Over the past two decades, there has been an increased interest in lifestyle change consistent with health promotion and risk reduction. However, knowledge concerning participation in health promoting behaviors in vulnerable elders remains small. The specific aim of the study was to identify, describe and provide a theoretical analysis of contextual and social resources that contribute to health promoting behaviors among vulnerable elders. Specifically, the study generated data to clarify and expand a theoretical model of health empowerment.
Design & Methods: Ethnographic methods were used to explore social and contextual strengths and resources. Constant comparative analysis was used throughout data collection and analysis. Open coding across transcribed data was used to label and contrast data with attention to consistency and variance. The context in which responses were given and the frequency of comments were used to measure the meaning and significance of specific topics. Techniques used to insure trustworthiness of data were consistent with naturalistic inquiry.
Participants: Sixty-six adults, 20 Hispanic/Latino elders and 46 Anglo elders, aged 55-93 participated in one of thirteen focus groups held at six congregate meal and shared living sites. During data collection men (n = 14) and women (n = 51) identified and described social and contextual resources used to promote health.
Findings: Data explicated unique aspects of relational, community and organizational resources. Elders created a “web of connectedness” to maintain independence. Web components included social engagement, reciprocity, shared resources and community and organizational engagement.
Conclusions: Social and contextual resources play an important role in health promotion and the management of chronic illness. These factors may be particularly important among elders and represent critical areas of intervention for community health nursing.
Implications: Findings provide a basis for development of socially and contextually relevant interventions designed to optimize health outcomes in the elderly.
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