On May 14, Executive Director Larry Curley will be conducting an in-depth presentation on “Healthy Aging in Indian Country” for the National Indian Health Board’s 10th Annual National Tribal Public Health Summit. The National Tribal Public Health Summit is a premiere American Indian public health event that attracts over 500 tribal public health professionals, elected leaders, advocates, researchers and community-based service providers.
American Indian and Alaska Natives (AI/AN) joining the aging baby boomer generation have been shaped by tumultuous changes in technology, society and culture. These external forces impact them mentally, spiritually and culturally in both positive and negative ways.
How can our elders create their own response to aging — one which demonstrates healthy resilience and avoids common pitfalls? How can we guide them on their path to find the person-centered approach that best fits them and their family? Our panel will discuss what we know about actively engaging in the aging process, the impact of aging on AI/AN LGBTQ elders, opioid issues, the differences between urban and rural AI/AN elders, and the increasing need for trained caregivers for our elders.
This year’s Summit will focus on five tracks: “Health Promotion and Disease Prevention”, “Public Health Policy, Infrastructure and Systems”, “Substance Misuse and Behavioral Health”, “Environmental Health and Climate Change”, and “Emergency Preparedness and Emerging Issues in Public Health”. It will feature dynamic national speakers, interactive workshops, roundtable discussions, a welcome reception, the annual Special Diabetes Program for Indians poster session, a morning fitness event, culture night, as well as the presentation of the 2019 Native Public Health Innovation awards.
This event provides unparalleled access to the nation’s foremost AI/AN public health and health care leaders. The Summit will feature recognized tribal leaders, public health practitioners, advocates, policy makers, and dynamic experts from across Indian Country and the nation.
NICOA’s interactive presentation will take place within the “Health Promotion and Disease Prevention” track. Attendees will draw upon their skills, knowledge and experiences as professionals to discuss healthy aging and how to develop a person-centered approach to caring for AI/AN elders. Small group discussion and storytelling will allow attendees to participate and share their wisdom.
The presentation will take place on Tuesday, May 14 in the Cochiti Room of the Albuquerque Convention Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Click here for a full schedule of events.
What you are doing is SO needed. I commend you for your work