== Training = = = = & Research = =

Joni Carrier, B.S.S.W.,
Training and Technical Assistance Coordinator

he Geriatric Leadership Seminar, June

13-17, 1995, was an enormous success.
The University of North Dakota was the site of
the first annual national level Geriatric
Leadership Seminar. With 21 participants
from around the United States registered, and
19 in actual attendance, dynamics of the group
were phenomenal. States represented
included Arizona, California, Michigan,
Minnesota, Montana, New Mexico, Nevada,
North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota,
Washington, and Wisconsin.

Each participant arrived with a “change”
project in mind. A “change” project was
described as an idea that would create positive
changes in the lives of North American Indian
elders. The participants were teamed with a
facilitator chosen for their professional
knowledge and expertise in the area of the
participant's idea. The facilitator role was to
provide support and guidance for the
participants as they worked on the focus and
direction of their projects. The participants
have approximately 1 year to implement the
project design in their home communities. The
assigned facilitator follows this process and is
available for consultation.

The Geriatric Leadership Seminar provided
the necessary atmosphere for the development
of a wide variety of project designs. The
following is a sample of work generated at the
seminar:

@ The coordination and development of an
urban Indian Elder Center that would
include a Senior Adult Housing Complex
and Senior Center.

“The Demise of the Extended Family” is a
project designed to re-educate the youth;
teaching them oral tradition and
encouraging them to interact with their
elders, seek their counsel and to RESPECT

their opinions.
(continued on back page)

Jack M. Geller, Ph.D.,
Research Director

D" you know that while Native American
elders are a rather small demographic
group, they are one of the fastest growing
cohorts today? Information from the U.S.
Bureau of the Census documents this fast
growing trend for Native elders 55 years and
older, as well as 65 years and older. The
actual numbers are listed below:

Cohort 1970 1980 1990

55 + 88,566
65 + 43,635

153,735
74,919

227,661
114,453

As you can see, the rate of increase in the elder
population is quite large over the past 20
years. Just looking at the age cohort “65 and
over”, between 1970 and 1980 the cohort
increased by 72 percent. Between 1980 and
1990, the number of Native elders 65 and
older increased by 53 percent. Overall,
between 1970 and 1990 the Native Elder
cohort age 65 and over increased by 162
percent.

Much of this increase is due to the increase in
life expectancy of Native elders. Below are the
life expectancy rates for Native Americans
across the same time periods.

Year Life Expectancy

65.1 years
1980 71.1 years
73.2 years**

“ for Native eric:

Service Areas

As one can see from the above data, Native
American elders are substantially growing in
numbers. Unfortunately, programs that stress
home and community-based services for the
elder population are not adequately keeping up
with the fast pace of growth.

car



x= Training = = = = Research ===

Joni Carrier, B.S.S.W.,
Training and Technical Assistance Coordinator

The National Resource Center on Native
American Aging continues with its many train-
ing and technical assistance activities. The
staff has provided cultural sensitivity training
within the northern Minnesota region and is
scheduled to train within our state boundaries.
The cultural sensitivity training focuses on
elder issues, the aging process, and the recog-
nition of self biases regarding the elderly,
especially minority aging persons. Our goal is
to search and find ways of welcoming and
retaining people of different ethnic back-
grounds within service programs. Cultural
sensitivity training has been well received by
our audiences.

The Geriatric Leadership Project Seminar,
scheduled for June 13-17, 1995, at the Univer-
sity of North Dakota has a deadline of May 1,
1995, for completing the application process.
Brochures were mailed out and to date the
response is favorable. If your organization or
office did not receive a seminar announce-
ment, please call our toll-free number and
leave your name and address. We will
promptly send you one.

Joni Carrier will be visiting Mesa, Arizona,
the location of our first annual conference,
during the first part of April in order to meet
site representatives and make connections
with area coordinators. She's looking for-
ward to the visit in addition to the warm
weather!

The development of a teaching manual, a major
component of the Family Strengths project, is
nearing completion. Dr. Greg Sanders, an
associate professor in the Child Development
and Family Sciences Department at North
Dakota State University, has collaborated with
our staff to produce a program designed for
strengthening intergenerational relationships in
North American Indian families. (See informa-
tion box on Page 4.)

(continued on back page)

Jack M. Geller, Ph.D.,
Research Director

During the past few months our research
activities have increased significantly. Below is
a brief synopsis of our activities at the National
Resource Center on Native American Aging.

National Study on Home and Community-
Based Services - Much of our attention has
been focused on the initiation of a national
study on home and community based long-
term care services in Native American commu-
nities. This collaborative study is being done
by our center, the Native Elder Health Care
Resource Center in Denver, Colorado, as well
as the Administration on Aging (AoA) in Wash-
ington, DC. Over 140 Indian and Alaska
Native communities have been selected and will
be surveyed on what services are available,
utilization of services, unmet needs, funding
sources and barriers to the establishment of
additional prograrns and services. At the
present time, a survey instrument has been
completed, the sample has been selected and
we are currently training AoA regional staff.
The survey itself is currently in the field, and
we anticipate drafting the final report by early
May.

Lower-Extremity Amputation Study - This
project examines lower-extremity (foot) ampu-
tations among elder Native American diabetics.
Data for this study was collected at Indian
Health Service (IHS) hospital and clinic sites
throughout North and South Dakota. The data
has been analyzed and we have drafted a very
user-friendly brochure on measures elders can
take to prevent this terrible tragedy.

Native American Elder-Care Study - This
study examines the caregiving and health care
utilization patterns among native elders. Using
the National Medical Expenditure Survey of
American Indians and Alaska Natives, we have
written and disseminated three Native Ameri-
can “Fact Sheets.” These short, but informa-
tive reports provide timely information about
access, barriers and utilization of health care

(continued on back page)

9°



Joni Carrier, M.S.W.,
Training and Technical Assistance Coordinator

TTM staff at the National Resource Center
on Native American Aging (NRCNAA) are
concentrating all efforts on the First Annual
Conference for North American Indians on
Aging, Health and Human Services. The confer-
ence, titled “Honor, Spirit, and Wisdom of El-
ders: The North American Indian Experience”
will be held November 30 - December 3, 1995 at
the Sheraton Mesa Hotel & Convention Center
in Mesa, Arizona.

The national conference will open with a
keynote address from Fernando Torres-Gil,
Assistant Secretary for Aging, Administration on
Aging. General session speakers include Ronald
Freeman, Senior Public Health Advisor, Office of
Health Programs, Indian Health Services; Mr.
Bob Blancato, Executive Director of the 1995
White House Conference on Aging; Dr. J. Neil
Henderson, Associate Professor of Psychiatry
and Community and Family Health, University
of South Florida Colleges of Medicine and Public
Health; Dr. Eddie Brown, Executive Director,
Health and Human Services, Tohono O'odham
Nation; and Phil Lane, Jr., International Coordi-
nator, Four Worlds Institute for Human and
Community Development.

Forty-two concurrent sessions make up the
conference program. An international line-up of
presenters will be featured with a variety of
interests. A sample of presentations include
long term care issues, intergenerational topics,
health care concerns, and recent medical re-
search. Special showcase events will feature
members of six metro-Phoenix tribes. The
NRCNAA gratefully acknowledges and appreci-
ates the interest and willingness of the many
diverse groups, to share in our effort to improve
and enhance lives of the North American Indian
elder.

Training and technical assistance activities
at the NRCNAA are focussed on the national
conference. However, we continue to develop
the Family Strengths manual, add to our library
of resources and provide assistance. For more
information on the conference, or to request a
cosiference brochure, please call 1-800-896-
7628.

== Training = = = = Research 2

Jack M. Geller, Ph.D.,
Research Director

Je the April 1995 issue of the Native American
Law Digest, M. Helen Spencer and Patricia E.
Funk document the findings of their research
examining the health and independent living
needs of Native American elders.' The study
surveyed 434 Native elders among 8 tribes in the
states of California, Maine, Montana, North
Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Wash-
ington. The study, sponsored by the Washing-
ton State Indian Council on Aging, used face-to-
face interviews as their data collection method.

e findin, i low:

1) Three-fourths of the respondents reported
having a chronic illness, such as high blood
pressure, diabetes, or arthritis. Approxi-
mately 40 percent reported having mobility
problems.

2) Many elders reported experiencing problems
with transportation. Approximately half of
the respondents reported relying on others to
meet their transportation needs.

3) Only one-third of the elders reported ever
having a home health visit. Very few re-
ported receiving regular home visits from a
health care worker.

4) Traditional medicine was practiced by one-
third of the elders. Surprisingly. those elders
55-65 were more likely to practice traditional
medicine than those 65 and over.

5)

Many elders had limited access to emergency
medical services. Most lived 10 or more
miles from a 24-hour emergency room, and
one-third did not have a working home
phone to call an ambulance if needed.

6) While most of the elders had positive opin-
ions of Indian Health Services physicians,
nurses, and facilities. many reported long
waiting times at the clinic, and seeing differ-
ent doctors with each visit.

' Spencer. H.M., and Funk. PE. (1995) “Meeting the Health and
Independent Living Needs of Older Indians.” Native American
Law Digest. Vol. 5, Number 4: 27-59.

de (Continued on back page)
G

24



National Resource Center on Native American Aging

University of North Dakota woo Pete

PO, Box 7090 PAID

Grand Forks, ND 58202-7090 Grand Forks, ND
Permit No. 10

Mission Statement

“The National Resource Center on Native American Aging serves the elderly Native American popu-
lation of the United States. The center is committed to increasing awareness of issues
affecting American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian elders and to being
a voice and advocate for their concerns. Through education, training, technical assistance,
and research, the center assists in developing community-based solutions to improve

the quality of life and delivery of related support services to this aging population."

2

oo oe = oe oe

ne

ae
TG

\n 1990, through the Census Bureau's
system of self-identifying, there were
1,959,234, individuals identified as
Indians. including Alaskan Natives.

Source: American Indians: Answers to
Today's Questions

The two leading causes of death for
American Indians and Alaskan Natives age
65 and over (1986-1988) were diseases of
the heart and malignant neoplasms. For
the U.S, All Races (1987), they were also
diseases of the heart and malignant
neoplasms.

Source: Trends in Indian Health 1991,
Indian Health Services, Department of
Health and Human Services.

RAN

5

Dative Aging Visions wants to hear about
outstanding people and programs that provide
health care and other services to Native Ameri-
can elders. If you know of any that deserve
recognition, let us know so we can share the
information. We hope to highlight some of

these people and programs in the upcoming
issues.

WH

"Morningstars"
represents guidance

Native Aging Visions ts published by the
Nattonal Resource Center on Native American Aging
at the Untverstty of North Dakota

P.O. Box 7090, Grand Forks, ND 58202-7090

(701) 777-3766 or 1-800-896-7628

Editor: Kristin Povilonis, Communications Officer



National Resource Center on Native American Aging
University of North Dakota eee aot
PO. Box 7090 OND
Grand Forks, ND 58202-7090 Grand Forks, ND
58202
Permit No. 10

Training (continued from page 5) The Training and Technical Assistance

department is working diligently in the
¢ The development and implementation of development of the nattonal conference.
age and diagnoses specific Teaching Guide Extensions for the Call for Papers has been
Sheets for elderly North American Indian ted due to the mail distributt t
ttents entering an Indian Hospital. 8 i s' on process to
Pai outlying areas. See informational box within

this issue.
The development of American Indian elder ssu

focus groups to identify problems and
concerns within their home communities.
Further expansion on this project will lead
to enhancement of service delivery by
working directly with elder community
groups.

Remember! Your ideas for feature stories are
important to us. Please contact our office with
your ideas. Also, we are interested in the
accumulation of American Indian elder stories
especially in the area of family strengths. Call
us on our toll free number: 1-800-896-7628.

The provisions of appropriate information
regarding services and supports available to

elders by designing a directory of services.
Each directory will be translated and
printed into the native dialect.

The evaluation of the incidence of American
Indian elder abuse and the determination of
the agencies addressing this issue.

Support group development for American
Indian elder grandparents raising their
grandchildren.

The participants in the 1995 Geriatric Leader-
ship Seminar are to be commended for their ea-
gerness, energy, and determination. Their de-
sire and visions of an improved life for North
American Indian elders will contribute to the
survival of this great society of people.

Dative Aging Visions wants to hear
about outstanding people and programs
that provide health care and other services
to Native American elders. If you know of
any that deserve recognition, let us know
so we can share the information. We hope
to highlight some of these people and
programs in the upcoming issues.

sy

Ifyou receive duplicate copies of Dative

ging Visions, please route to others who
do not receive addressed copies or call us
at 1-800-896-7628.

EEN

21



ASRCRCRCRCRCR CR CECRCRCACE CECE CT

The Indian Pioneer on the Telephone

by Mikki Kozel, Native American Programs

oger calls me from his office in Bemidji.

Minnesota from time to time. I've never
met Roger Jourdain, former Tribal Chairman
of the Red Lake Nation. now in his eighties.
but I do feel as though I've come to know him
through our telephone conversations over the
last year.

Roger likes to cuss, and it doesn't bothei
me; | find his language rather colorful. And
the stories, well, one doesn’t spend well over
30 years in office serving his people without
collecting a pouch full of stories. Every con-
versation leaves me with at least a grin. and
for sure something to think on for awhile.

Roger, a certified DFL’er since the early
days, talks politics more often than not. He
knows his causes and pretty much everyone
else's that have come and gone throughout
his 50-some years of leadership on behalf of
Indian Country. Roger ran with the big guys,
as they say. crossing paths with national
leaders, congress persons, and presidents
alike.

I enjoy Roger's people stories the best.
friends he has made along the way and out of
the way, what their journeys were, how he
interacted with them, and where they ended
up today. Usually they're funny stories, and I
laugh. Some characters are old, some new,
and even those who no longer walk the earth
come to life in Roger Jourdain’s stories.

History and reform are areas that Roger is
well familiar with. He's seen many changes in
life as we know it, and he continues to work
as a consultant, advocating for causes and
the well-being of minorities and elders. And it
seems to me that my telephone friend can pull
numbers and facts out of thin air and throw
them to Grand Forks in a heartbeat.

“Over $24 million dollars has been
awarded through the Minnesota Indian Schol-
arship Program.” he tells me, "Minnesota was
the first state in the nation to provide entirely
free American Indian scholarships, and it was

because we fought for it. Over 3,000 Indian
people have received their educations through
the Minnesota Indian Scholarship Program.
and went on to success.”

Roger Jourdain is proud of that. as he
should be, and he goes on to tell me that it
would sure be nice to hear from a few of the
3,000 people who benefited from the scholar-
ship. Of course he says so in his own colorful
language, sprinkled with that classic Indian
humor.

“It'd be a dirty, rotten shame if I never
heard from some of those people,” he says,
“you know, call cr write me a note. just to say
hi, thank you or go to hell. You know what I'm
saying?”

“Yep,” I answer, cradling the telephone
receiver, “I know.”

We go on awhile more, journey through
another winding story or two, share a laugh,
and pass along some news about life. folks we
know, and things coming up. Then we wind
down, wish each other well, and say our
goodbyes.

“You take care,” | tell this friend 1 am
honored to know.

“Megwitch,” he replies.

“Try to stay outa trouble”, I tease, “and

hey Roger - thanks once again for sharing
your stories.”

“Indian Country Loong Terres

Caregiver Conference”

A Conference for
North American Indians on Aging,
Health and Human Services

| November 1-3, 1997
| Duluth, Minnesota

Watch your mail for more information.

Syp—22



ACR CRERSCRGCRCRCECRCACR CECE CECE CT
Programs Reaching People

by Yvonne Jackson, American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian Program Director

‘oday. longevity is becoming more prevalent in American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native
Hawaiian communities. This welcome trend has placed greater demands on a service delivery
system which is even more complex and fragmented than systems in non-Indian communities.

As stated in the Older Americans Act (OAA), the Assistant Secretary on Aging, through AoA’'s Ameri-
can Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian Program “shall serve as the effective and visible advo-
cate in behalf of older individuals who are Native Americans within the Department of Health and
Human Services and with other departments and agencies of the Federal Government regarding all
federal policies affecting such individuals... coordinate activities between other Federal departments and
agencies to assure a continuum of improved services through memoranda of agreements or through
other appropriate means of coordination, administer and evaluate grants (to Native Americans), and
collect and disseminate information related to the problems experienced by older Native Americans on
elder abuse, in-home care, health problems, and other problems unique to Native Americans.”

These functions are carried out in a variety of ways, including: 1) grants to Native Americans;

2) Federal Interagency Task Force on Older Indians; and 3) National Resource and Policy Centers on
Native American Aging.

Grants to Native Americans: Under Title VI of the Older Americans Act, AoA annually awards
grants to provide supportive and nutrition services for Native American elders. Persons eligible for
services under Title VI are tribal members, or Native Hawaiians who are age 60 or over, or beyond the
age established by the tribe, and living in the Title VI service area.

In Fiscal Year 1993, nearly 2.5 million congregate and home delivered meals and over 3 million
supportive services were provided to older Native Americans through programs funded by Title VI.
Supportive services included information and assistance, transportation, homemaker and chore service.
health aid assistance, legal assistance, and ombudsman services. In Fiscal Year 1994, grants were
awarded to 227 American Indian and Alaskan Native tribal organizations and 1 organization serving
Native Hawaiian elders.

Federal Interagency Task Force on Older Indians: Section 134 of the 1987 OAA Amendments
directed AoA to establish a permanent interagency task force comprised of representatives of federal
departments and agencies with “an interest in older Indians and their welfare” within the Office for
American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian Programs. The purpose of the Federal Inter-
agency Task Force on Older Indians is to facilitate coordination among federally funded programs and
improve service to older Indians. The Task Force is required to make recommendations to the Assistant
Secretary on Aging who, in turn, is required to include these recommendations in the AoA annual report
to Congress. Currently, the Task Force is comprised of representatives from the Departments of Inte-
rior, Commerce, Labor, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development. Agriculture, and Education.
as well as various agencies within the Department of Health and Human Services, including Indian
Health Service, Office of Minority Health, Social Security Administration. Health Care Financing Admin-
istration, and Administration for Native Americans.

During Fiscal Year 1995, the Task Force will be focusing on three areas of concern to Native Ameri-
can elders: health; transportation; and data. The Task Force will be making recommendations to fur-
ther interagency collaboration and enhance services to Native American elders, and highlight problems.
issues and/or barriers that prevent or diminish collaboration.

National Resource and Policy Centers on Native American Aging: In February 1994, AoA
awarded cooperative agreement grants totaling approximately $1 mi’.'on to the University of Colorado at
Denver and the University of North Dakota at Grand Forks to establist National Resource Centers on
Native American Aging. The primary focus of both centers is health, community based long-term care.
and issues related to American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian elders. The Centers will be
focal points for the development and sharing of technical information and expertise to Indian Organiza-
tions, Title VI grantees, Native American communities, educational institutions, and professionals and

paraprofessionals in the field.
a



QE GGUS G OGUUGGAUAG

“Tomorrow Will Be A Better Day, Because I Will Be Heard”
Michelle Kozel, UND Native American Programs

Wiz Marie Rogers speaks - a lot of people listen, and Marie speaks out quite a bit these days.
She’s been heard at home on the Rosebud Indian Reservation in South Dakota, at town
meetings across the country, on video tape, and even at the 1995 White House Conference on Aging.

At 83 years old, Marie says she’s not very fast, but anyone who knows her will tell you she hasn't
slowed down a bit. As an advocate for senior citizens, Marie frequently speaks out for aid that will
help Native American elders to live productive and independent lives.

It hasn't been easy, but Marie herself is one fine example. Born one of five children to a poor
ranching family, Marie went away to boarding school at the age of 13 and worked for the government
after that. She's survived through 2 depressions, had 6 kids, 32 grandchildren, and 34 great-
grandchildren.

“Sure there's been problems through the years,” she said, “but I face problems. I can't break
down - I'm the one that has to stay strong. They sometimes call me the Boss Grandma.”

When asked where she gets that strength, she says its source is spiritual.

“We've been through racism thick as mud here. Kids used to tell us to go back to the reservation,
but I'd say ‘God wants us here,’ and we all made it.”

Last year, Marie made an appearance in a video entitled “Legacy,” which she did with the National
Indian Council on Aging (NICOA). Reservations across the country were visited to illustrate the
extreme conditions of poverty in which so many Native Elders are living.

Most of the homes featured were in a severe state of disrepair, with many lacking such basics as
heat, electricity and plumbing. Elders were often undernourished and lacked access to health care
because of transportation problems.

The video related most of these findings to the inadequate Title VI funding of the Older Americans
Act. And while Marie agrees that much more funding is needed, she disagrees with how the current
funds are sometimes managed.

“I was disappointed with the video's segment about the Pine Ridge Reservation. It was not
accurate; the situation there is even more desolate than it showed. I'm not afraid to blast them. I have
no relatives to protect.”

Marie carried those messages to the 1995 White House Conference on Aging May 2-5, and was
impressed with how she and the other senior delegates were received.

“We were over 2000 strong and the White House top government officials were definitely looking,”
she said. “How could they avoid us?”

She also shared the stories of other elders with Washington officials and told them of the sad
things she had witnessed first hand.

“I told them they need to send better people, qualified people to handle the funding. Young people
were eating meals and telling the elders there was no money. I visited 3 kitchens in one day and all
that was being served was goulash-no coffee, no milk, no dessert.”

The administration was very responsive, Marie said. President Clinton, Vice President Gore and
several members of congress openly expressed their support of the delegation in the opening
sessions. Marie would have loved to personally meet the president, who sat just 3 tables away from
her at the reception.

“President Clinton spoke very strongly and encouraged us Sr. Citizens to push and that he'd back
us all the way,” she said.

Indian people need a strong voice, according to Marie. It's not easy being heard, she said,
especially when you're old. Also, because of traditions, tribes often look to the men when things need
changing, but sometimes it's women who have the answers.

Marie advises other elders to assume personal responsibility for their health. She'd like to see
more money spent on research and education. so that elders can recognize problems as they may
develop. 1 8

{Continued on Page 4)



Dative Aging Visions

A Resoures f jor Dative Elders

A Publication of the National Resource Center on Native American Aging
at the University of North Dakota
Volume I, No. 3 Spring 1995

Director's Column
"The National Resource Center on Native Conference goals include providing resolutions
American Aging was awarded a grant to solicit to influence national aging policy and develop-
health and service concerns from American ing a blueprint for action to have the resolu-
Indian elders and caregivers. In preparation tions implemented.
for the White House Conference on Aging in Please feel free to contact the Center with
Washington, DC, resource center staff are suggestions or comments that will help formu-
gathering information through town meetings late new policy. The Center staff can be
at reservations and urban American Indian reached at 1-800-896-7628.
communities in lowa, Minnesota, Nebraska,
North and South Dakota. Upon completion of -- Leigh D. Jeanotte

about 28 town meetings, the resource center's
national steering committee and a
select group of American Indian
elders will meet at the University of
North Dakota in Grand Forks on
April 6 and 7, to review, discuss and
finalize recommendations for consid-
eration to be forwarded to the White
House Conference on Aging. Con-
cerns being voiced include health
care, housing and economic security.

The May conference, “America
Now and Into the 21st Century: Gen-
erations Aging Together with Indepen-
dence, Opportunity and Dignity,” will
examine the needs and contributions
of today’s and tomorrow's older
citizens.

Native Aging Visions {s supported by a grant, No. 90-AM-0756, from the x
Administration on Aging, Department of Health and Human Services.



== = m= =m ReSearch 2 STs Ss =

Kyle Muus, Ph.D.
Research Director

ye the early 1990s, Altobelli et al. were
commissioned to assess and evaluate the
Native American elder research conducted in
the Aberdeen (SD) Indian Health Service (IHS)
service area. The authors focused their as-
sessment on the following areas: demograph-
ics; family environment and structure; health
issues and status; and service access and
utilization. Their findings indicated the scant
nature of quality research focusing on issues
pertinent to elders.

Based on their findings, the authors devel-
oped a research agenda regarding Native
elders. The agenda, still largely relevant to-
day, calls for the direction of research efforts
to go toward the following issues:

I. The impact of modernization on
Native American elders,
* impact of the role and status of the elders
* impact on family structure
¢ impact on the sensitization of young Native
Americans toward the needs of elders

«impact on the traditions of caring for, and
respect of elders

¢ impact on the role of elders as story tellers
and cultural transmitters

Il. The under-utilization of health
services by Native American elders.

* the degree to which health services are
affordable and accessible to elders

* impact of cross-cultural provider/
consumer interactions

* the consequences of under-utilization on
health status

¢ the causative factors of under-utilization
of health services

* the availability of traditional treatment and
its effect on the under-utilization of
modern health services

¢ the effect of noncompliance behavior on
utilization rates

* the identification of barriers from within
Native American culture to utilization of
modern health services

Il. Epidemiological studies of Native
American elders for acute & chronic
diseases.

* comparison of reservation vs. off-
reservation residents

* comparison of Native Americans vs. non-
Natives

* examination of substance abuse
prevalence

* examination of suicide rates

* examination of cultural bias in the
diagnosis of mental illness

IV. The institutionalization of Native
American elders.

* examination of the impact of the health
care delivery system on institutionalization
rates

* examination of the discrepancies between
the cultural orientations toward elders and
institutionalization rates

* impact of institutionalization on the ex-
tended family culture

V. Other areas such as:

* crime victimization of Native American
elders,

* impact of a culture of poverty on abuse
and exploitation of Native American elders,

* examination of differential definitions of
“Elderly” and “Indian” and its impact on
service provision,

* examination of mobility patterns of Native
American elders and its impact on service
utilization.

This agenda was derived using the follow-
ing criteria: the extent to which there was an
information gap in the literature; the quality
of the existing information; the extent to
which there were contradictory research
findings in the area; and the extent to which
the area impacted the daily lives of Native
elders. For more information on this report,
call Kyle Muus at 701-777-3848.

Citation: Altobelli, J., Geller, J., Harles, N., Ludtke, R.,
Muus, K., Torkelson, D. (1990). An assessment and
evaluation of Native American aging research for the
IHS Aberdeen Service Area. Grand Forks, ND: The UND
Rural Health Research Center.

Ome



RCA CBRCACRCACRCRCACRCACR CE CACE CT

Lifeline: A Lifesaving Device for the Oneida Tribe

Kristin Povilonis, Communications Officer

A frail, elderly woman on the Oneida Indian Reservation in Wisconsin falls from her bed and is pinned
between the bed and the nightstand. She can't move or reach the phone to call for help. But, because she
was hooked to a Lifeline system, a life and death situation was avoided.

Lifeline is a personal emergency response system designed to help.people live independently. It uses a
help-button device, worn as a necklace, bracelet, or clip-on, which alerts Lifeline systems at hospitals in
Green Bay and Appleton, Wisc., when a person is having problems. After the hospital has been alerted, a
responder — a friend, relative or neighbor chosen by the Lifeline subscriber — is sent to the caller's home
before an ambulance is called. Previously, home-bound elders who had fallen would have lain tere until
someone found them. Now, with Lifeline, they just push a button and someone will be there in 10 minutes.

“It is like someone living with you in the home,” says Arleen Elm, benefit specialist for the Oneida Eld-
erly. Lifeline gives elders, especially those in rural areas, a sense of security. Elm says many elders live in
remote areas without any close neighbors.

The Oneida Reservation, which encompasses 65,000 acres, began its Lifeline system in 1990 after
seeing how successful it was in Green Bay, just 15 miles away. -

“The Lifeline system is used a lot,” Elm says. It is used for any emergency service, not just health-
related. She adds that it is a “worth-while program.” Lifeline currently serves 34 frail, elderly or handi-
capped tribal members.

Lifeline requires the user to have a phone. The Oneida Tribe has set aside $10,000 a year to assist with
costs for the system. It costs $25 to install each Lifeline device and $25 in monthly charges, which the tribe
pays. Elm says there are people who need the system but don’t have phone service. Other elders, she
notes, want to remain independent and don’t care for Lifeline. Overall, she says, there is more need for the
system and interest is starting to increase.

For more information, contact Arleen Elm (414) 869-2448 or Life Systems, 640 Memorial Drive,
Cambridge, MA 02139-4851. 1-800-451-0525 ext. 1114

Native Elder Health Care Resource Center

A new Native Elder Health Care Resource Center For more information, contact Jeanene Diana,
(NEHCRC) has been established in Denver, Colo- information specialist, University of Colorado
rado, to promote the health and well-being of Native Elder Health Care Resource Center,
older American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Campus Box A011-13, 4455 E. Twelfth Ave.,
Native Hawaiians by increasing cultural compe- Denver, CO 80220. Tel: (303) 372-3250

tence among health care professionals and para- Fax: (303) 372-3579

professionals who plan, administer, and provide Internet: Jeanene@polaris.hsc.colorado.edu
relevant services to these populations.

Funded by the Administration on Aging under
Title IV of the Older Americans Act and located at
the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center,
the center will focus on ascertaining health status
and conditions, improving practice standards,
increasing access to care and mobilizing commu- Native Aging Visions is publisi..1 by the
nity resources, National Resource y Noa oa Native American Aging

NEHCRC will use Denver Free-Net (DFN), a at the University of No 01
computerized electronic all-communications PO. Box 7090, Grand Forks, ND 58202-7090

system, to disseminate a majority of its informa- CoN 777-3766 eee are 7628 tions Officer
tion. : :

cane



Dative Aging Visions

A Resource for Dative Elders

A Publication of the National Resource Center on Native American Aging

Director's Column

W ceome! This is our second issue of Native
Aging Visions. We have been extremely busy since
the first newsletter. National Resource Center on
Native American Aging staff have been actively
working on research and developing various
training programs. There are several exciting
projects in the works. We have also chosen a six-
member national steering committee which will
assist the resource center in building a firm
foundation. Members are:

@ Lawrence K. Koseki, D.WS., associate
professor of Public Health at the University of
Hawaii at Manoa.

Gaiashkibos, M.S., tribal chairman of the Lac
Courte Oreilles Tribe in Hayward, WI. He is a
member of the Lac Courte Oreilles Tribe.

Cynthia La Counte, B.S., Community Health
Representatives (CHR) and Aging Programs
Coordinator for the Trenton Indian Service
Area in Trenton, ND. She is a member of the
Chippewa Nation.

Sophie Two Hawk, M.D., clinical director at
the Rosebud PHS Indian Hospital in Rosebud,
SD. An enrolled member of the Cheyenne
River Sioux Tribe, she was the first American
Indian Graduate of the University of South
Dakota School of Medicine.

Art McDonald, Ph.D.. a member of the Lakota
Sioux Tribe. is president of Dull Knife
Memorial College, in Lame Deer, MT.

Wendall McLester, Community-Based
Resident Facility (CBRF) Planning Manager for
the Oneida Tribe, in De Pere, WI. He is also a
member of the Oneida Tribe.

ut the University of North Dakota
Nolume 1. No. 2. Winter 1994

We believe this culturally diverse committee will
provide appropriate guidance needed by the
resource center to become productive in achieving
its goals. We look forward to the recommenda-
tions and advice to be provided by the steering
committee. We hope you enjoy this issue and if
you have any comments or story suggestions,
please pass them on to us.

-- Leigh Jeanotte

Mark your calendars!!!

Geriatric Leadership Project Seminar
University of North Dakota
June 13-17, 1995

This five-day seminar will enhance leader-
ship skills through the integration of knowl-
edge and hands-on experience with a pro-

fessional facilitator. Training will focus on

elder issues, the aging process, and the

development and implementation of a
change project. Participants will explore
attitudes, biases, and misconceptions they
may have about Native elders. The seminar
is scheduled for June 13-17, 1995 at the
University of North Dakota in Grand Forks.
Watch your mail for brochures and applica-
tions.

Native Aging Visions is supported by a grant, No. 90-AM-0756. from the x
Administration on Aging, Department of Health and Human Services.

6



(Continued from Page 3)

She also strongly supports elders remaining in their own homes, whenever and for as long as
possible.

“It is my one fear. that the only place to go is a rest home. People often give up there, they stop
caring, they don't have activities or enough exercise. They deteriorate quickly there and then, sadly.
they die.”

As a diabetic, Marie realizes that her own health falls into the high-risk category. She's suffered 3
heart attacks. so now she listens to herself. how her body really feels, and rests accordingly. She
doesn't. however. always listen to her doctor.

“After my last heart attack. | was in the hospital for just three days when | told my doctor that |
wanted to go home, because I had an airline ticket for the following day. The doctor said that I could
go home, but not traveling. I felt really good though: I felt ’ was ready. so I went. The doctor still
enjoys sharing that story, about how he told me | could go home. not fly away!”

Marie drives herself around quite a bit, and still volunteers for elders who need assistance,
whether that be with meals, a ride to the dime store, to church. or for medicine.

She worries that Indian people of today are too fractionalized here and there.

“We need to stick together to make a difference. We elders need to speak out for more long-term
home care services. We've been tramped on all our lives.” she said, “and too many people are hanging
themselves for ‘traditions.”

Perhaps most importantly. Marie tells her people again and again not to ever lose hope.

“Don't give up and for sure keep smiling,” she says. “Tomorrow's a better day.”

Alan Allery, Marlys Bratteli. and Jack Geller of the National Resource Center on Native American Aging at the
University of North Dakota, traveled to Bismarck, North Dakota last month and met with Fernando Torres-
Gil, the Assistant Secretary for the Administration on Aging.

The group presented Mr. Torres-Gil with a booklet of information covering research and training projects
completed by the center, and briefed him about upcoming possible projects. Mr. Torres-Gil expressed great
interest in the projects and requested additional information, including the Aging Profile of American Indians

From left to right: Ed Johnson,
Director of Administrative Sup-
port, United Tribes Technical
College (UTTC); Allen Allery,
Director, National Resource
Center on Native American
Aging; David Gipp, President of
UTTC: Fernando Torres-Gil,
Assistant Secretary, Administra-
tion on Aging; Marlys Bratteli.
Director, Training and Technical
Assistance, National Resource
Center on Native American
Aging; and Jack Barden, Direc-
tor of Research.



National Resource Center on Native Amertcan Aging
University of North Dakota

PO. Box 7090

Grand Forks, ND 58202-7090

Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Grand Forks, ND
$8201
Permit No. 10

7
Family Strengths Program |
A program that builds family strengths
between Native American elders and their
families is being developed by the National
Resource Centr on Native American Aging.
The program will build family relationships
by strer.gthening the expression of
committment, appreciation, communication
and time together, as well as supporting the
skills that help families get through difficult
times. We are interested in including short
examples or stories of how families express
their strengths, especially as it includes
family elders. Families can send their stories

to us at:

The National Resource Center on
Native American Aging
P.O. Box 7090
Grand Forks, ND 58202-7090

\

Training (continued from page 3)

The resource center is also developing a
program for Native American elders and their
families. Concentration will be on recognizing
family strengths and building family relationships.
The program will be a coordinated effort between
the resource center and Dr. Greg Sanders of the
North Dakota University Child Development and
Family Relations Department.

Dative Aging Visions wants to hear about
outstanding people and programs that
provide health care and other services to
Native American elders. If you know of any
that deserve recognition, let us know so we
can share the information. We hope to
highlight some of these people and pro-
grams in the upcoming issues.

st

If you receive duplicate copies of Dative

ging Visions, please route to others who
do not receive addressed copies or call us
at 1-800-896-7628.

Wawa

9.
4



National Resource Center on Native American Aging
University of North Dakota

P.O. Box 7090

Grand Forks, ND 58202-7090

Address Correction Requested

Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Grand Forks, ND
58201
Permit No. 10

National Aging Information
Center Opens in Washington

he National Aging Information Center

(NAIC), established under the Older
Americans Act, opened in September, 1995, and
serves as a central source for aging related
information.

The mission of NAIC ts to improve the ability
of the nation to successfully meet the needs of
an aging society through collecting, developing,
and disseminating information about current
approaches to policy and practice.

The Center features a reading room and
reference collection open to the public. Refer-
ence librarians are available to assist patrons in
searching the databases and accessing the
printed materials.

Inquiries can also be made by telephone.
NAIC information specialists are available to
assist by searching databases, consulting statis-
tical tables, providing copies of publication and
materials, and making referrals to other
sources,

Most NAIC services are provided free of
charge. For information, or if you'd like to share
information regarding publications, research,
programs, conferences, or events - the NAIC
may be reached at: the National Aging Informa-
tion Center, 500 E Strect, SW., Suite 910, Wash-
ington, DC 20024-2710. Tel: (202) 554-9800;
Fax: (202) 554-0695; Internet: naic@ageinfo.org

Research (Continued from page 3)

These highlights present just a short glimpse
of their survey findings. Shortly. the results of
another study collaboratively conducted by
Administration on Aging, the University of
Colorado, and the University of North Dakota
will be disseminated. This study surveyed
health and social service providers from 109
tribes nationwide. It will be an informative
compliment to the Spencer and Funk study as it
examines the need, availability, and acceptabil-
ity of home and community-based services for
Native elders.

Dative Aging Visions wants to hear about
outstanding people and programs that
provide health care and other services to
Native American elders. If you know of any
that deserve recognition, let us know so we
can share the information. We hope to
highlight some of these people and pro-
grams in the upcoming issues.

Ifyou receive duplicate copies of Dative
“\ging Visions, please route to others who

do not receive addressed copies or call us

at 1-800-896-7628.



ED 410 070 RC 020 361

TITLE Native Aging Visions: A Resource for Native Elders. Volume
1, 1994-97.

INSTITUTION North Dakota Univ., Grand Forks. National Resource Center on
Native American Aging.

SPONS AGENCY Administration on Aging (DHHS), Washington, DC.

PUB DATE 97

NOTE 31p.; Photographs will not reproduce adequately.

CONTRACT 90-AM-0756 ‘

PUB TYPE Collected Works - Serials (022)

JOURNAL CIT Native Aging Visions; vl nl-6 1994-97

EDRS PRICE MFO1/PCO2 Plus Postage.

DESCRIPTORS Alaska Natives; American Indian Education; American Indians;

Cultural Awareness; *Gerontology; Hawaiians; Health

Programs; Health Services; Higher Education; Information

Dissemination; *Older Adults; *Professional Training;

Research Projects; Social Services; *Technical Assistance
IDENTIFIERS *Native Americans

ABSTRACT

This volume of newsletters reports on the activities and
research projects of the National Resource Center on Native American Aging
located at the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks. The Center studies
health issues and access problems facing American Indian, Alaska Native, and
Native Hawaiian elders. Specifically, the resource center was developed to
provide training and technical assistance to health and social service
professionals who work with Native American elders; to conduct research on
pertinent Native American elder issues; to facilitate training programs
regarding curricular sensitivity to Native American elders; and to develop a
national dissemination strategy for training materials, research findings,
and resource center activities. Newsletters consist of correspondence from
the center's director overviewing center activities, profiles of resource
center staff, information on upcoming conferences and training programs,
descriptions of training and technical assistance programs developed by
staff, and research projects initiated by resource center staff. Examples of
training programs developed by staff include a geriatric leadership project
and a cultural sensitivity training program. Research projects initiated by
the center have examined the utilization of health care services among older
Native Americans, the access and utilization of formal and informal
caregiving services for older Native Americans, and the incidence of
lower-extremity amputations among older Native Americans. (LP)

FACING IOI III III ISI SI IIS IIIS SISSIES IIIS IIIT IIIS III I TIS III

* Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made
* from the original document.

FEISS SII ISISIIISIOIISISIISISIIOISIIUISIISI SOE TS IETS III TOIT ISITE ISSISIOISI IIIS ei tk

*
*



Crow Eldercare Program: A Blessing for Caregivers

Kristin Povilonis, Communications Officer

A woman on the Crow Indian Reservation in Montana has been tirelessly taking care of her
mother stricken with Alzheimer's disease. Another woman needs to be reminded not to turn the
heat up too hot whenever she cooks. Both these women are benefiting from a program that
helps people with dementia and brings relief services (respite care) to those caring for
Alzheimer's patients.

Started in 1993. the Crow Eldercare Program — an Alzheimer's/dementia demonstration project
— provides case management and respite care to Native American elders who suifer from these two
illnesses. An application is used to enroll a person in the program and all dementia cases are con-
firmed by a physician.

As a team, Director Mary Wallace. RN. and Edwina Beaumont. social worker. conduct init.al
assessments of the elder’s needs, develop a care plan. and match elders with trained respite care
providers. Wallace and Beaumont also supervise and train respite care providers. Currently. six
providers assist recipients in transportation. socialization. companionship, household duties, per-
sonal care. and other activities that may benefit both the elder and primary caregiver.

“There is a real need for this [program],” Wallace says.

Ann Johnson, of the Montana Office of Aging, says the Crow Reservation is a leader in the coun-
try providing direct respite care to elders. She says the project demonstrates a need for targeted
care for elders and new challenges for service providers. including the Indian Health Service. “It isa
growing popuiation, requiring a whole range of services that help the elder stay at home.” Johnson
says.

Care is provided free of charge to Crow tribal members and spouses. Currently. twenty-eight
people are served by the program. Barriers to care include long distances to urban facilities and the
high cost of private care.

Wallace says some caregivers have stated that the Crow Eldercare Program is a real blessing and
they are grateful they have someone to help them.

Funded by the Health Resource Service Administration (HRSA) and matching tribal funds. the
project is one of fifteen national demonstration projects developed to provide respite care to families
of elders with dementia.

Wallace adds that a state survey on the needs of Native American elders is also being done.

For more information on the Crow Eldercare Program, contact Mary Wallace or Edwina Beau-
mont at (406) 638-2601.

UND Annual American Indian Week

The University of North Dakota (UND) Indian Association extends a cordial welcome to the 26th
Annual American Indian Week to be held on April 3-9 on the UND campus. Numerous speakers
and workshops will be held from Monday through Friday. A special performance will take place on
Friday by the “Dakota Plains Dance Theatre” and the Pow-Wow will be held on Saturday and
Sunday, awarding about $20,300 in prize money to dancers and drum groups.

Please help us celebrate the week's activities. 1f you would like to receive a poster or want
additional information, please contact:

UND Indian Association
Box 8274, University Station
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, ND 58202
(701) 777-4291

Peto



ACR SCRCRCACRLCE CE CACA CECE CER CO 6B 61

Cultural Sensitivity Training

The National Resource Center on Native
American Aging staff will provide training to
individuals and organizations who are
interested in increasing their Native American

elder knowledge base and
enhancing their local
service delivery system. We
offer a variety of
culturally-sensitive training
programs focusing on
elderly issues and the aging
process. The goal within
our framework of service
training programs is to
allow individuals who
provide services an
opportunity to identify
minority elders and explore
their own personal biases.
We also invite service
providers to identify ideas
to encourage the elderly to
continue their participation
ffi the programs being
offered by their agencies.
Within the area of aging,
specifically cultural
diversity and sensilivity, we
concentrate on identifying
differences and similarities
among the cultures and the

programs being provided. For instance, we
explore the differences and similarities between
Title III and Title VI programs. Other training
available focuses on diabetes, substance abuse,
elder abuse and health-related issues. For
more information, contact Joni or Marlys at

(701) 777-3766.

\ Training Center

Elder Center Uses Computerized

Information System

(1 American Indians experience >)

dialysis, amputations and loss of
vision from diabetes earlier and
more frequently than elders of
other races.

-- Native American Research and
Training Center

American Indian elders develop
disabilities from health-related
problems at a rate 30 percent
greater than other Americans of
their age.

-- Native American Research and
Training Center

American Indians experience
chronic illness and disability in
their middle years (40-50) that
other races experience in their
60's and 70's, yet few programs
for elders exist in Indian commu-
nities.and even fewer exist for
elders with disabilities.

-- Native American Research and

w,

building of which a floor is devoted to the
NEHCRC project. The rooms on the NEHCRC
floor house various forms of health-related
information. The rooms are at different stages
of construction, modification, and refinement
as an on-going process.

A new computerized electronic telecommuni-
cations system will assist the Native Elder
Health Care Resource Center (NEHCRC) at the
University of Colorado Health Sciences Center

in Denver in disseminating
information. The system
is a part of the Denver
Free-Net (DFN), which is
a community computing
system operated by the
University of Colorado
School of Nursing.
Information on health
care, education, the arts,
and other useful topics is
provided.

NEHCRC, funded by the
Administration on Aging to
promote the development
of culturally-competent
health care for Native
American elders, uses the
electronic network system
to disseminate NEHCRC-
generated data, technical
assistance resources,
discussion groups, and
exemplar programs related
to the care of Native
elders. The system uses a
metaphor of a health-care

The DFN may be accessed free of charge by
modem (dial 303-270-4865), via Internet, or
through other communication systems, For
more information, call 303-372-3228,

5s



National Resource Center on Native American Aging
University of North Dakota

PO. Box 7090

Grand Forks, ND 58202-7090

Address Correction Requested

Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Grand Forks, ND
58201
Permit No. 10

Training (continued from page 4)

ideas and plan how they would use the infor-
mation they had learned when they returned
home. Following a delicious meal, we were
entertained by E.J. Satala, Coordinator of the
Elderhostle Program in Prescott, AZ. He made
us laugh, cry and look at the world in a whole
new way. We received many positive com-
ments, and viewed the First Annual Confer-
ence as a major success.

In conjunction with the National Indian
Council on Aging (NICOA), IHS Elder Health
Care Initiative, the University of Colorado
Native Elder Health Care Resource Center,
and the Minnesota Indian Council on Aging,
we are proud to announce an upcoming
conference. “Indian Country Long-Term
Caregiver” is tentatively planned for November
1-3, 1997 in Duluth, Minnesota. This 2%
day conference will offer two tracks: one for
CHRs and para-professional carcgivers, and
one for family and other non-professional
elder caregivers. . Be sure to watch future
newsletters for more detailed information. In
op mean time if you need information or if we

be of assistance to you, please call 1-800-
¢ 896-7628.

Geller Resigns

Jack Geller, Ph.D., Research Director for the
National Resource Center on Native American
Aging, resigned his position effective January
15, 1997. Geller also withdrew from his
duties as Director of the Center for Rural
Health at the UND School of Medicine and
Health Sciences in Grand Forks. He has
assumed the duties of Director of Health
Systems Research at Marshfield (WI) Health
Systems. The staff at the Resource Center
wish him the best of luck in his new position.

Dative Aging Visions wants to hear about
outstanding people and programs that
provide health care and other services to
Native American elders. If you know of any
that deserve recognition, please let us know
so we can share the information. We hope
to highlight some of these people and
programs in the upcoming issues.

st

If you receive duplicate copies of Dative
ging Visions, please route to others who

do not receive addressed copies or call us

at 1-800-896-7628.



== Training = = = = Research =

doni Carrier, B.S.S.W.,
Training and Technical Assistance Coordinator

The National Resource Center on Native Ameri-
can Aging has focused on several training and tech-
nical assistance endeavors since the last newsletter.
We are pleased to announce that a Geriatric Leader-
ship Project Seminar is scheduled for June 13-17,
1995 at the University of North Dakota in Grand
Forks.

Mesa, Arizona will be the location for our 1st
Annual National Resource Center on Native Ameri-
can Aging Conference. The conference is sched-
uled for November 30 - December 3, 1995. More
information will be disseminated as the confer-
ence develops.

In November, resource center staff attended
the National Congress of American Indians Ccn-
ference and Exhibition in Denver, Colorado. This
provided an excellent opportunity to meet indi-
viduals with similar interests related to elderly
Native Americans. It was also the premier show-

ing of our new display tabie wher= many partici-
pants stopped to chet and view our collection of
photographs featuring Native elders from our
area. Our goal is to increase our photo inventory
to include other United States tribes including
those in Alaska and Hawaii.

While in Denver, a meeting was held with our
counterparts from the Native Elder Health Care
Resource Center. A collaborative research effort
that involves evaluating long-term services among
Native American elders was discussed.

Joni Carrier, training and technical assistance
coordinator, attended the National Indian Health
Board/Indian Health Services conference in Albu-
querque, New Mexico in late November. She
gathered further information about the health
status of Native American elders.

Resource center staff will also attend the
American Society on Aging conference in Atlanta,
Georgia in March. Information and materials
gathered at these conferences will be available by
contacting the center.

Our resource library continues to grow daily
as we acquire videos, books, journals and other
rez ding material on elderly Native Americans. An
updated bibliography of resources is available.

Jack M. Gellex, Ph.D.,
Research Director

Our research at the resource center has been
quite active ever the past six months. Below, is a
brief synopsis of some of our ongoing research
activities:

The first “Fact Sheet” from our Native Ameri-
can Elder Health Care Utilization Study was
disseminated in September as Report No. 94-01.
The analysis focused on access to a usual source
for health care among Native Americans. Interest-
ingly, over 90 percent of those surveyed reported
having a usual source of care, however, the rate
varied somewhat by age (elders were less likely to
report having a usual source of care), sex, English
fluency, as well as by health status. The report
also noted that the rate of utilization of Indian
Health Service providers significantly decreased as
people reached elder status and became Medicare
beneficiaries.

Our second Fact Sheet (which is enclosed in
this newsletter) examines time barriers among
elders in accessing health care services. To re-
ceive copies of our Fact Sheets or publications,
call our toll-free number at 1-800-896-7628.

The NativeAmerican Elder Care Panel
Study is also progressing quite well. Data collec-
tion among Native elders and their families has
been completed in North Dakota and data collec-
tion is currently underway among Native Hawaiian
elders. Next year, we plan to collect additional
data among elders and their families in Alaska
and in the Southwestern United States. Once this
data collection is complete, we will be able to
perform comparative analyses across various
native people in our examination of utilization of
formal and informal services for the elderly, family
care-giving patterns, care-giver burden and acces-
sibility to important elder services. In the interim,
look for reports with our regional findings begin-
ning in January 1995.

(continued on back page)



alive Aging Visions

A Resource for Native Ehlers

A Publication of the National Resource Center on Native American Aging

Director's Column

merican Indian Elders are among the poor-

est of the poor and are facing many exter-
nal pressures or forces that cause overwhelming
concern and have a negative effect on their
physical and mental health. Their numbers are
growing faster than the U.S. elder population as
a whole, and their life-long struggles with lack of
employment, racial tensions, inadequate health
care, and movement from one war on poverty
program to another has proved to be disastrous.

The result is a population of elders facing
many new challenges like retirement on a very
limited income. Most have simply not had
career opportunities which would have allowed
the accumulation of a retirement fund, nor
significant enough income to set aside funds for
individual retirement plans. Their income
capacity is diminished due to age, and their
expenses for health care and other basic needs
are increasing disproportionately to their ability
to pay.

This same group of elders has worked dili-
gently, often times without funds, while waging
war for the good of the tribe. As a result they
have obtained better roads, vastly improved
sanitation facilities, new schools, new hospitals
and clinics, the development of tribally con-
trolled community colleges, and scholarship
programs for their members to attend a college
of their choice. Elders have encouraged and
supported financially a countless number of
young people in legal, health care, and other
revered professions.

I've sat with elders on many occasions while
they have debated the pluses and minuses of
various industries and businesses and how they

at the University of North Dakota
Volume 1, No. 5 Fall 1995

might affect their societies. I've marveled at
how, after the long hours of debate and discus-
sion, elders have been able to make the very
best decisions for their people. They have ago-
nized over the pros and cons of accepting
nuclear waste, of venturing into the gambling
world with casinos, and over the long-term
management and preservation of natural re-
sources.

Our elders have done a good job against
tremendous odds, only to be faced with contin-
ued difficulties in their retirement years. We
need to follow their example arid do for them in
retirement, what they have done over the years
for their people and communities. Tribal gov-
ernments must take a renewed interest in tribal
elders to make sure that home and community-
based services such as health care, social ser-
vices, housing, nutrition, legal, mental health,
and religious and spiritual services are being
provided.

It is unconscionable to look the other way
and expect the federal or state government to
meet all the needs of our elders. The investment
of more tribal resources, interests, and efforts
need to go toward attracting, matching, and
direct funding of services to support a rewarding
and comfortable life style for elders. American
Indian elders deserve far more than a poverty-
stricken retirement following life-long struggles
and endless community service. The genera-
tions they have nurtured must now respond
with compassion and most importantly - imme-
diate action.

- Alan Allery

Native Aging Visions is supported by a grant, No. 90-AM-0756. from the
Administration on Aging, Department of Health and Human Services.

22



Many Winters

by Alan Allery, Native American Programs

) look ahead and see the end of the harsh winter we've had. I notice around me the number of
people who have many winters in their past. When | see them | realize that my winters, my expe-
riences are humbled in comparison. In a way I am fortunate that I have not had to experience the
difficulties elders have seen and that I can benefit from their wisdom. I was better able to endure
the harshness of this and other winters because I benefit from their many winters.

1 look back to see where I have been and I realize that there were many elders supporting, guid-
ing, and helping me through difficult times, as well as celebrating with me the good times. I look
around me to see what has changed. I see many more young Indian people that are well prepared
academically. Notice, I didn’t say educated. I see many Indian people with more money than they
have ever had before. I see new cars, new computers, digital TV, and cell phones in many Indian
homes. All of these things are good, they make our many winters ezsier.

But a tear comes to my eye when I see the lack of respect and support for our elders today.
When I see them eating tuna helper on Christmas Day. When Social Security was instituted years
ago, many elders, at the time, wondered what it meant for them as American Indians. After all,
their contributions to the system would be low because of seasonal work and the high rate of un-
employment near their homes. Many questioned the need for it since tradition dictated that the
family was to care for their elders. However, many families began to fall apart for various reasons
and the demands of the increasingly large numbers of young people put a huge strain on the tradi-
tional extended family.

As a result of these changes, the Indian family began to rely on support from places other than
the traditional family. Many outsiders were eager to help, imposing their value systems on Indian

societies, thinking that their values which have served them well would also serve Indian people
well.

But as Indian people and families began to accept those values and ideas, the nation’s values
began to incrementally take a right turn. Now the emphasis is on self sufficiency, using the con-
cept of limited support to enable those in need rather than support those most in need.

The results of the changes to our nation is evolving to an ever increasing pressure on American
Indian elders to assist in supporting the young. Sadly and certainly shameful, sometimes the

young even demand money, psychologically blackmail, or otherwise abuse elders to get what they
need or want.

So I find myself looking ahead and sceing many harsh winters for young and old alike. Oh, the

weather may be delightful, but the dominant society has made a value shift that American Indian
elders and society will Fave to deal with to maintain and strengthen the family.

We must again rely on our elders and benefit from their many winters. We must take action to
support family values and traditions. We must call on the direct involvement and institutions who
serve us such as Tribal Colleges, schools, Indian Health Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Tribal

Government, and others, Together we must honor our elders and support the maintenance of the
extended family system.

The nice thing about today is that Spring is almost here, it is a time of rebirth and now is the
best time to take action - to breathe new life into the Indian dream. A time to revitalize extended
families throughout Indian Country. A time to revere elders and a time to encourage the young. 1
look to see the end of the many harsh winters our elders have endured, optimistic that it is just

ahead. 28

at



Marlys Bratteli, M.S.W.

At the National Resource Center on Native Ameri-
can Aging, training and technical assistance are
vital components as linkages are formed between
individuals, professionals, non-professionals,
researchers, organizations. and most importantly.
the elders.

Technical assistance will be provided by a
culturally competent staff, experienced in issues
related to Native American aging.
The resource center will develop
ISWAN and/or adapt training materials for
distribution with an emphasis on
cultural appropriateness. Educa-
tional programs will focus on adapting and repli-
cating a successful geriatric leadership program in
many Native American communities --differing
both culturally and geographically.

The technical assistance services and
materials will be available nationally through a
multi-faceted dissemination effort. A national
clearinghouse on Native American aging resources
will be established. along with a toll-free (800)
nuinber for obtaining materials and technical

assistance (1-800-896-7628), a
quarterly newsletter, Native Aging
Visions, which will provide informa-
tion on Native American aging and
resource center activities, and a
national, invitational conference on
Native American aging. Also, the
resource center will pursue a
research agenda, focusing on the
provision and utilization of long-term care by
American Indians, Alaskan Natives, and Native
Hawaiians. Research project results will be dis-
seminated through scholarly journals, “ a-house”
papers, and presentations.

The National Resource Center on Native
American Aging invites you to contact our office
with questions or concerns regarding the Native

American elderly. We look forward
to the opportunity to get acquainted
and exchange information related to
the Native American elderly and
aging process.

== Training = —=_—= Research =

Jack Geller, Ph.D.

Several research
projects are under
way within the
resource center.

The Native Ameri-
can Elder Health
Care Utilization
Study:

This study
uses the 1987
Survey of American
Indians and Alaska
Natives (SAIAN) to
examine the utiliza-
tion of health care
services among Native Americans, 55 years of age
and older. Two topics that we are focusing on are.
1) the overall health status of Native American
elders, and 2) to whom and where Native American
elders go for their everyday health care needs.
Other topics to be analyzed next year include the
utilization of traditional medicine among Native
American elders and the access and utilization of
oral and dental services.

The Native American Elder-Care Panel Study:
This study examines the access and utiliza-
tion of formal and informal caregiving services for
Native American elders. Utilizing a “family per-
spective,” researchers will interview family mem-
bers of Native American elders, as well as the
elderly themselves, to better understand what
community-based services elders use, problems of
access to services, and the role of families in the
care of the elderly. Interviews are currently under
way with American Indian families in North Da-
kota. Additionally. with the assistance of ALU
LIKE, Inc., Native Hawaiian families are also being
interviewed in Hawaii. Next year. we hope to
collect data from Native Alaskan families and
American Indian families in the southwest United
States.
The Lower-Extremity Amputation Study:
Recognizing the complications that are
often experienced as a result of the high rates of
diabe mong native people. this study will
specifically examine lower-extremity amputations
among Native American elders. Using abstracts.
from medical charts at Indian Health Service
facilities, we hope to gain valuable insights in
preventing this tragedy.

Research team, left to right:
top: Pan, Geller, Ziner
bottom: Ludtke, Burd



National Resource Center on Native American Aging
University of North Dakota

PO. Box 7090

Grand Forks, ND_ 58202-7090

Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Grand Forks, ND
58202
Permit No. 10

Training (continued from page 5)
Marlys Bratteli, Director of Training and Tech-
nical Assistance, and Joni Carrier, Training
and Technical Assistance Coordinator, at-
tended, presented and exhibited at the North
Dakota Conference on Rural and Public Health
in Bismarck, ND, on February 22-24, 1995.
Many participants visited our display area
demonstrating great interest in our endeavors.

Marlys attended the Oklahoma Women and
Wellness Conference entitled “It's Great to be
an American Indian Woman in the Nineties!" on
March 7-9, 1995. She presented as well as
administered the National Resource Center's
display. From Lawton, OK, Marlys attended
the American Society on Aging's Annual Meet-
ing and Exhibition in Atlanta, GA. Informatior
regarding these conferences is available by
contacting the center,

We have added a number of books and videos
to our library focusing on North American
Indian elderly. An updated bibliography of
resources is available by contacting our center.
The toll-free number is 1-800-896-7628.

Research (continued from page 5)

services among Native elders. Additionally, we
are continuing to collect data in both North
Dakota and Hawaii, regarding informal and
formal patterns of caregiving to Native elders.

If you would like a copy of any of the reports,
fact sheets, or brochures mentioned above,
please call the center at our toll-free number
and we will be happy to meet your request.

Dative Aging Visions wants to hear
about outstanding people and programs
that provide health care and other services
to Native American elders. If you know of
any that deserve recognition, let us know
so we can share the information. We hope
to highlight some of these people and
programs in the upcoming issues.

If you receive duplicate copies of Dative

ing Visions, please route to others
who do not receive addressed copies or
call us at 1-800-896-7628.

P|

cane



Pictured above is the group participating in the 1995 Geriatric Leadership Seminar. From left to right:
(Note: (F) indicates facilitator.)

Row 1 (kneeling): Marlys Bratteli, Director. Training & Technical Assistance: Dr. Greg Sanders. (F), Fargo,
ND: Lloyd Falcon. Trenton. North Dakota: Sister Marmion Howe, Rapid City. South Dakota: Deborah Verbil.
Crownpoint. New Mexico: Roxene Judson. Mt. Pleasant, MI; Leland Conner, Logan, OH: Shirlev Lewis. Rapid
City, South Dakota: and Sue Tohm. (F), Grand Forks, North Dakota.

Row 2: Barb Jacobsen, (F), Grand Forks, ND: Joni Carrier. Training Coordinator: Janet James,
Gardnerville, NV: Lynda Lasiloo, Shiprock, NM: Mary Snobl, St. Paul, MN: Kenneth Chester, Oakland, CA:

Denise Varner, Cloquet, MN; Hazel Shegonee, Milwaukee. WI: Sharon Wolf, Bellingham. WA; and Mary Lynn
Kasunic, Phoenix, AZ.

Row 3: Bryon Novotny, (F), Grand Forks, ND; Cynthia LaCounte, (F), Trenton, ND: William Zaste. Trenton.
ND; Glen Revere, Harlem, MT; Alan Allery, Director; Reginald (Lucky) Newsome, Administration on Aging,
Washington, DC; Margaret Moss, Sante Fe, NM: Leonard Kary. Keshena. WI: and Don Mitchell. Chinle. AZ.

“Honors Spirits and Wisdoro of Elders: The North American Indian Experience”
The First Annual Conference for North American Indians on Aging, Health and Human Services
November 30-December 3. 1995
Mesa, Arizona
* Deadlines for the Call for Papers has been extended to August 31, 1995. A preliminary conference
: brochure and registration materials will be arriving in your mail soon!!!

$0 9

17



“SE CS GEE Meet the Staff 2 SS

|
|
|

Leigh Jeanotte, Ed.D., serves as Director of the
National Resource Center on Native American
Aging. A Chippewa, Dr. Jeanotte received a B.S. in
Elementary Education, M.Ed. in School Adminis-
tration, and Ed.D, in Education Administration
from the University of North Dakota (UND).
Jeanotte is currently the assistant to the vice
president for student affairs for Native American
Programs at UND.

Alan Allery, M.H.A., serves as Project Coordina-
tor for the resource center. Mr, Allery received his
M.H.A, in Hospital and Health Care Administration
from the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis. He
is currently a grant writer for the UND Office of
Native American Pro-

grams. He is a member

of the Chippewa Nation.

Marlys Brattell,
M.S.W., Director of
Training and Technical
Assistance for the
resource center, re-
ceived her B.S. in social
work from UND and her
master’s in social work
at the University of
Wisconsin, Madison.
She is currently serving
as the Executive Direc-
tor of the Resource
Center on Gerontology.

Jack Geller, Ph.D.,
serves the resource
center as Research Director. Dr. Geller received
his B.S. in Soctology from Montana State Univer -
sity, Bozeman, his M.S. in Rural Sociology at the
University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, and Ph.D. in
Rural Sociology at Iowa State University, Ames.
His responsibilities include overseeing all research
aspects of the National Resource Center on Native
American Aging’s activities. Dr. Geller serves as
director of the UND Center for Rural Health.

Andrew Ziner, Ph.D., Principal Investigator, is
responsible for the Native American Elder-Care
Panel Study. Dr. Ziner received a B.A. in Social
Science and a M.A. degree in Gerontology from the
University of South Florida. He received his Ph.D.
in Sociology at the University of North Texas, and
completed post doctorate work in Applied Geron-
tology at the Gerontological Society /Administration
on Aging.

Richard Ludtke, Ph.D., is the Principal Investi-

TM Left to right: Brattell, Carrter Geller Jeanotte, Povilonis, Allery.—
mold

Utilization Study. Dr. Ludtke received his B.A. and
M.A. in Sociology at UND. and his Ph.D. in Sociol-

ogy at the University of Kentucky, Lexington. He is
currently the Chair of the Department of Sociology
at UND.

Christine Burd, B.S.N., M.S.N., serves as the
Principal Investigator on the Lower-Extremity
Amputation Research Study. Ms. Burd received
her B.S. degree in nursing at Temple University.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and her M.S. degree in
nursing from UND. She is currently a doctoral
student in the University of Manitoba Department
of Community Health Sciences, Winnipeg.
Manitoba, Canada.

Shihua Pan, Ph.D.,
serves as the Research
Associate for the
resource center. Dr.
Pan received her B.A. in
Agricultural Economics
in China and M.S. in
Agricultural Economics
at lowa State Univer-
sity, Ames. She re-
ceived her Ph.D. in
Economics and com-
pleted her post doctor-
ate work in Economics
at lowa State Univer-
sity. She is currently a
research associate at
the UND Center for
Rural Health.

Joni Carrier, B.S.S.W., B.A., has been hired as the
Training Coordinator for the resource center. Ms.
Carrier received bachelor's degrees in Social Work
and Indian Studies from UND. She is currently
enrolled in the master’s program and will receive
her M.S. in Social Work in December. Ms. Carrier
is also an enrolled member of the Chippewa Na-
tion.

Kristin Povilonis, B.A., is the Communications
Officer for the resource center. Ms. Povilonis
received her bachelor's degree in Communication
from UND. She is currently the Communications
Officer for the UND Center for Rural Health, where
she ts the editor of state and national rural health
newsletters.

Julie Arnold serves as the Administrative Assis-
tant for the resource center. Ms. Arnold will
handle the center's records managemer’ and
computer operations.

gator for the Native American Elder Health Care 5s

3



Dalive Aging Visions
A Resour

roe f for Dative Elders

A Cuarterly Publication of the National Resource Center on Native American Aging

Director's Column

reetings! It's good to be back in business
after about a year of being in financial

limbo. In December of 1995 we were in-
formed that our funding for Year 03 was
frozen due to the continuing resolutions
within the federal government. Even without
the funding support from the Administration
on Aging (AoA), we made every effort to con-
tinue working on various projects. We were
able to present at several conferences, main-
tain the 800 number, and assist in the publi-
cation of the Long Term Care Community
Assessment Project.

In the fall of 1996, we were advised that
we would receive partial continuation funding
for 13 months. This current funding will end
in February of 1998. We are striving to obtain
other grant sources to enable us to continue
our mission in the future.

Our center continues to function on three
levels: research, training and technical assis-
tance. Kyle Muus and Rick Ludtke from the
Center for Rural Health will have primary
responsibilities for research activities. Marlys
Bratteli, Resource Center on Gerontology.
continues as the Director of Training and
Technical Assistance. Julie Arnold, Resource
Center on Gerontology, is back as the Admin-
istrative Assistant and continuing on as Pub-
lic Information Specialist is Mikki Kozel,
Native American Programs.

at the University of North Dakota
Volume 1, No.6 Spring 1997

Some of the current activities and future
plans include:

@ Assist NICOA with a National Conference
in Duluth on November 1-3, 1997.

Arrange a meeting with AIHEC members
in Rapid City to determine if there are
any cooperative efforts we can work on,
such as a Geriatric Leadership Seminar.

Search for continuation funding from
other sources.

Obtain funding for at least two Geriatric
Leadership Seminars.

Develop a home page for the Center on
the Internet.

Identify funding sources for additional
research projects on Aging.

In all of our future endeavors, we intend to
work closely with the National Indian Council
on Aging (NICOA) and the Resource Center in
Denver. If readers come across some impor-
tant topics or ideas they would like us to
pursue, or if anyone becomes aware of other
efforts we could tie in with, please contact us
at: 1-800-896-7628 (toll free).

In the meantime, take care and keep in
touch. We look forward to serving elders and
elder care providers in the months to come.

— Alan Allery

Native Aging Visions is supported by a grant, No. 90-AM-0756, from the x
Administration on Aging, Department of Health and Human Services.
Issue delayed by the Flood of 1997.



Dative Aging Visions

A Resource for Dative Elders

A Publication of the National Resource Center on Native American Aging
at the University of North Dakota
Volume 1, No. 1 Fall 1994

ED 410 070

Wacome to Native Aging Visions, the inaugural newsletter of the new
National Resource Center on Native American Aging located at the University of North
Dakota, Grand Forks.
The National Resource Center on Native American Aging will study health issues
Ue DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION and access problems facing American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian
ERUCATIGHAL FE SOUNGES INFORMATION elders. The resource center is the result of a Cooperative Agreement from the Adminis-

rin docu NER ERO) cod a8 tration on Aging, United States Department of Health and Human Services.
fecerved irom tne person oF orgamzaton The National Resource Center on Native American Aging {s under the direction
ott ewtenmste of Leigh Jeanotte, a member of the Chippewa Nation. ‘The effort at UND ts a collabora-
improve raproduction quality. tion between the UND Office of Native American Programs, the UND Center for Rural

="Fons daw or oumons wale Health, and the UND Resource Center on Gerontology. The resource center will be
Gocument donot necesseniy preset’ — SUBCOntracting work with ALU LIKE, Inc., a Title VI provider serving elder Hawaiian
oft OFFI oreotey Natives throughout Hawaii.

The resource center will:

@ Provide educational training and technical assistance to health and
social service professionals who work with Native American elders.

¢ Conduct research on pertinent Native American elder issues.

@ Facilitate educational training programs regarding curricular
sensitivity to Native American elders.

@ Develop a national dissemination strategy for training materials,
research findings, and resource center activities.

i A unique feature of the resource center will be its collaboration with
Leigh Jeanotte, Ed.D. many of the nation’s tribal colleges. The resource center is proposing to
Director establish a visiting “Fellows Program” where faculty from tribal colleges
can spend up to six weeks working with the research and education
“PERMISSION TO REPRODUCE THis faculty at the University of North Dakota.
MATERIAL HAS BEEN GRANTED BY During the first year of operation, the National Resource Center on Native
lar American Aging will also create a Native American Geriatric Leadership Training Pro-
7 T gram for service providers, establish a toll-free (800) technical assistance line for health
Bra i rel t care and social service providers, develop orientation curricula for Title VI and other

sources health and social service workers, conduct several research projects, and establish a
Toe eo centtAienia ational clearinghouse on Native American aging.

‘With one of the nation’s largest enrollments of Native American students, the
University of North Dakota has a long-standing tradition of service to Native Americans.
The National Resource Center on Native American Aging will continue this tradition of
leadership and service to Native Americans and their communities.

We hope you find Native Aging Visions useful and informative. If you have
comments or suggestions for future issues, please let us know.

- Leigh Jeanotte

RC020- 361

Native Aging Visions is supported by a grant, No. 90-AM-0756, from the
Administration on Aging, Department of Health and Human Services.

BEST COPY AVAILABLE 2



=== = == Training Sa a

Marlys Bratteli, M.S.W.
Director, Training and Technical Assistance

Jes been awhile since we were last able to
bring you news from the National Resource
Center on Native American Aging. Through-
out the months we have remained active -
even though we were not able to bring you a
newsletter. Of course time moves on and so
do people. Joni Carrier, the Training Coordi-
nator, is no longer with us. She is now work-
ing for the Eagle Project in Grand Forks, North
Dakota. It gives her an opportunity to work
with adolescents and the school system, and
we wish her all the best.

Since our last newsletter, we have com-
pleted some exciting projects. One that I
wanted to share with you was the First An-
nual Conference for North American Indians
on Aging, Health and Human Services. The
conference, “Honor, Spirit, and Wisdom of
Elders: The North American Indian Experi-
ence,” was held November 30-December 3,
1995 at the Sheraton Mesa Hotel & Conven-
tion Center in Mesa, Arizona. It’s hard to
believe that it has been over a year since the
conference. Many of you have called asking
about it and inquiring as to upcoming confer-

ences, and | want to take this opportunity to
let you know how the conference went.

The conference was attended by more than
four hundred North American Indians, with a
majority of attendees registering as elders!
More than one hundred North American
Indian tribes were represented from twenty-
seven states; including Alaska, Hawaii and
four Canadian provinces.

Forty-seven sessions, including seven
general sessions, were held. Many of these
were standing room only. People had an
opportunity not only to learn, but to meet old
and new friends. Two things stand out in my
mind as highlights of this conference. First
were the Tribal Showcases. At the start of
each half day, an area tribe shared informa-
tion about their people. Most told about their
communities, both historically and today,
entertained through dance or signing, and
displayed their crafts.

Second was the closing brunch on the last
day. Here people came together to share

(Continued on page 6)

Two Hopi elders at the First
Annual Conference for North
American Indians on Aging.
Health and Human Services. The
conference, “Honor, Spirit, and
Wisdom of Elders: The North
American Indian Experience,” was
held November 30 - December 3,
1995 at the Sheraton Mesa Hotel
& Convention Center in Mesa,
Arizona.



American Indian Transportation
and Land Use Summit

The Intertribal Transportation Association
and the Transportation Research Board Sub-
committee on Indian Affairs will be co-conven-
ing the American Indian Transportation and
Land Use Summit at the Albuquerque Conven-
tion Center, April 23-27, 1995.

Sponsored by seven cabinet-level federal
departments including Transportation and
Health and Human Services, the summit will
bring together Indian Tribes, state, local and
federal government officials, and the private
sector to share information on ways these
groups can work together to meet the transpor-
tation planning needs on Tribal Lands. It will
include Tribal case studies, panel discussions
and a resource fair.

The Summit goals are 1) to show Tribes,
government agencies and the private sector
ways they can best utilize the resources each
group has to offer, 2) to highlight for Tribes the
need to build Tribal-based planning capabili-
ties, and 3) to illustrate the ways in which
transportation impacts other areas ranging
from health care delivery to economic develop-
ment.

For more irformation, contact Paulette
Hansen or Bill Morlan at (202) 434-4768 or
write to ITA at #414-CNW, 444 North Capitot
St.. NW. Washington. DC 20001.

“Flonors Spirit, and Wisdom of Elders:
The North American Indian Experience”

The First Annual Conference for North
American Indians on Aging, Health and
Human Services

November 30-December 3, 1995

Mesa, Arizona

Geriatric Leadership Project
Seminar
University of North Dakota
June 13-17, 1995

This five-day seminar will enhance leader-
ship skills through the integration of
knowledge and hands-on experience with a
professional facilitator. Training will focus
on elder issues, the aging process, and the
development and implementation of a
change project. Participants will explore
attitudes, biases, and misconceptions they
may have about Native elders. The seminar
is scheduled for June 13-17, 1995. at the
University of North Dakota in Grand Forks.
Watch your mail for brochures and
applications.

Family Strengths Program

A program that builds family strengths
between Native American elders and their
families is being developed by the National
Resource Center on Native American Aging.
The program builds family relationships by
strengthening the expression of commit-
ment, appreciation, communication and
time together, as well as supporting the
skills that help families get through difficult
times. We are interested in including short
examples or stories of how families express
their strengths, especially as it includes
family elders. Families can send their
svories to us at:

The National Resource Center on
Native American Aging
P.O. Box 7090
Grand Forks, ND 58202-7080



Dative Aging Visions

A Resource for Dalive Elders

Director's Column

reetings and welcome to another issue of

Native Aging Visions. Our staff here at the
National Resource Center on Native American
Aging has (literally) covered a lot of ground
since our last newsletter, both locally and
nation wide.

Our efforts have concentrated on identifying
where changes are most needed to improve the
quality of life for American Indian elders, as
well as the delivery of related support services.

Our journey began with many town
meetings spread out across the country, which
we proposed in order to collect a wide variety
of input from people at the grassroots level.
This enabled individuals from all walks of life
to attend and participate. including many
elders with limited access to travel or funding.

Turnout varied from place to place, ranging
from groups of 15 to 20 people and upward.
Our next step was to pull together all of the
information gathered at the town meetings to
be forwarded to the White House Conference
on Aging. This was done via a mini-conference,
which was held here on the University of North
Dakota campus during our Annual Indian Time
Out week in April.

There were four general areas of concern
that came up frequently throughout the town
meetings and mini-conference. Perhaps
foremost were concerns about the quality and
accessibility of health and long-term care.
Other issues included the promotion of
economic security, housing and support service
options and maximizing the quality of life for
American Indian elders.

The White House Conference on Aging is
held approximately once every 10 years and in

A Publication of the National Resource Center on Native American Aging

at the University of North Dakota
Volume 1, No. + Summer 1995

the past there have been problems with
processing too many resolutions. Though our
needs are extensive, we realize that resolutions
numbering in the hundreds far exceed the
government's ability to deal with them.
Therefore, working with the National Indian
Council on Aging (NICOA), one resolution was
formulated and modified for the 1995 White
House Conference on Aging.

A pre-conference was first held in
Albuquerque, New Mexico, where we presented
our information and chaired a health care
concerns committee. Elders from every state
attended the White House Conference in
Washington D.C. May 2-5, including a strong
Native American delegation.

Our major efforts in Washington D.C. were
to support the reauthorization of the Older
Americans Act and increased funding for Titles
VI (nutrition, health care services) and VIH-B
(Indian Elder protection services).

Our next step would be to push for full
appropriations, and while my overall view of
the White House Conference was certainly
positive, great changes may be challenged by
the current cut-back political climate.

One thing is for sure: American Indian
elders will not quietly fade away. At the 1995
White House Conference on Aging, the elders
were very much seen and heard. which may be
the greatest weapon we have against federal
funding cuts.

Many thanks go out to all who participated!

— Alan Allery

Native Aging Visions is supported by a grant, No. 90-AM-0756, from the x
Administration on Aging, Department of Health and Human Services.