Calling For An Encore
Exploring How We Can Make Our Next Song the Best
My Gold Award project, "The Encore Initiative," sparked a deep curiosity in me about how different cultures approach the care of elderly individuals with age-related cognitive decline. Coming from a mixed-race family with grandparents of European, Hispanic, and Asian descent, I've observed firsthand the diverse perspectives and approaches to aging within my own family. This personal experience, coupled with my work on The Encore Initiative, has inspired me to embark on a research project exploring the role of cultural background in shaping the care, support, and perceptions surrounding cognitive decline in elderly populations.
My Research
This research will focus on comparing and contrasting community-focused cultures, such as those found in many Asian countries, with individual-centric cultures, such as those prevalent in many European countries. By examining these distinct cultural contexts, I aim to understand how cultural values and social support systems influence the ways communities care for those with cognitive decline. The research will delve into the following key areas:
Caregiving Practices: How do cultural norms and expectations shape the roles of family members, community organizations, and healthcare professionals in providing care for elderly individuals with cognitive decline?
Stigma and Perceptions: How do cultural beliefs and attitudes influence the perceived stigma associated with cognitive decline and dementia? Are there variations in how different cultures interpret and respond to these conditions?
Help-Seeking Behaviors: Do cultural values impact the willingness of elderly individuals to accept help and support for cognitive decline? Are there differences in how individuals from community-focused and individual-centric cultures navigate the challenges of aging and cognitive impairment?
Through this research, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between culture, aging, and cognitive health. The findings will contribute valuable insights into culturally sensitive care practices and inform strategies for supporting elderly individuals with cognitive decline in diverse communities.
