Pinnacle of life - Maori living to advanced age

Abstract

Aim The purpose of this feasibility study was to investigate whether Māori of advanced age would be interested in and able to take part in a quantitative study involving a comprehensive questionnaire, physical health assessment and blood analyses (a range of biological markers). The study also aimed to involve older Māori in all stages: development of research questions, review of assessment techniques and interpretation of results. Method Māori aged 75–79 years living in the Bay of Plenty and Lakes DHB areas were invited to participate in a feasibility study covering a wide range of quantitative health related questions. After informed consent interviews and physical assessments were conducted in participants’ homes or at a local clinic by Māori health providers contracted as a research partner. For those who gave informed consent specifically for blood analyses, bloods were taken and analysed for defined biological markers of inflammation and ageing. All physical assessments and blood analyses were forwarded to each participant’s own general practitioner and relevant guidance was given by the research team. Results Collective results from 33 Māori participants are presented and cover: Te Reo Maori me ona tikanga (Māori language and cultural knowledge), tribal and whānau (extended family) links, cultural values and religion, whānau engagement and recreational activities, health status, healthy eating and discrimination. The Te Whare Tapa Wha model of health and the Poutama model of human development are utilised to provide an overall framework and context to present the results in respect of our participants and to celebrate their 'advanced' old age. Conclusion The feasibility study has been successful in engagement with older Māori. It has paved the way to implement a subsequent longitudinal study which aims to enrol 600 Māori aged 80 to 90 years and 600 non-Maori aged 85 years in the Bay of Plenty and Lakes District Health Board areas (Tauranga, Rotorua, Whakatane, Opotiki and Te Kaha). The longitudinal study, “Life and Living in Advanced Age, the cohort study in New Zealand LILACS NZ – Te Puawaitanga o Nga Tapuwae Kia Ora Tonu”, will record and observe participants’ journeys to the end of their life. The LILACS Study NZ is at the stage of recruitment of participants and funding has been allocated for waves two and three and the next stage of the study will have an increased focus on dementia.