Older Aboriginal Australians’ Health Concerns and Preferences for Healthy Ageing Programs

Abstract BackgroundWhile there is strong evidence of the need for culturally appropriate healthy ageing programs for older Aboriginal Australians, there are few such available programs. There is also emerging potential and advantages of using technology as a platform for program delivery. It is important to understand older Aboriginal Australians’ perceptions of healthy ageing in order to co-design culturally appropriate healthy ageing programs, including views on technology use in this context.MethodsSemi-structured interviews were conducted with 34 Aboriginal Australians aged 50 years and older from regional and urban communities to explore participants’ main health concerns, preferred approaches to developing healthy ageing programs, and receptiveness to technology. Qualitative data were analysed using a grounded theory approach. ResultsThis study found that older Aboriginal Australians are concerned about chronic health conditions; social and emotional wellbeing; and difficulties accessing health services. Barriers to participation in current health programs included unappealing programs, disengagement due to past negative experiences, shame or stigma, and a sense of disempowerment. Flexibility of attendance and social aspects emerged as enablers. From the perspective of older Aboriginal people, a successful model of a healthy ageing program is one that comprises physical and cognitive activities, social interaction and health education, while providing culturally safe care and transport. Such a model should maintain family, community, cultural identity and empowerment regarding ageing well as its central tenets. This study also provides preliminary evidence of the viability of technology as a platform for health program delivery amongst older Aboriginal people in urban and regional settings. ConclusionFuture research may apply these findings in the implementation and evaluation of culturally appropriate healthy ageing programs for older Aboriginal people.