Abstract:
Health indicators for older Māori reflect persistent inequities in Aotearoa/New Zealand, yet the wellbeing of kaumātua (elders) appears robust. It is possible that their crucial role in transmitting traditional knowledge and practices may sustain wellbeing through strong social networks and a sense of purpose and value. Our programme of qualitative research aims to highlight kaumātua voices in the search for pathways towards fostering wellbeing and remediating health inequities. For a feasibility study, our seven member team (Māori, with one exception) met with kaumātua from two localities to plan noho wānanga, intensive meetings to exchange knowledge and ideas. The wānanga, held over a 24 hour period, involved focus group style sessions, interviews in pairs and shared meals. Kaumātua appreciated the opportunity to talk about ageing well and the study demonstrated that our innovative approach sits well amongst the tools of kaupapa Māori methodology (research methods designed by and for Māori). The data were analysed with NVivo, showing that kaumātua understood health and wellbeing holistically and historically, showed less interest in their own health than we expected and were dedicated to their roles and to the wellbeing of their communities. With a further grant we explore community responsibility for kaumātua health and wellbeing. We add oral history techniques to our palette and we broaden the investigation to include family, community and health services. As well, we strongly emphasize place in its historical, geographical and social context, echoing kaumātua voices from the initial study.