Building a Sustainable Elder Care Model for the Ngäbe-Buglé Indigenous People: An Intercultural and Collaborative Approach
Principal Investigator
Dr. Carlos Faerron Guzmán, Associate Professor of Global Health, UMB School of Graduate Studies
The objective of this project is to enhance the health and well-being of the indigenous Ngäbe-Buglé elderly and aging population in La Casona, Coto Brus, Costa Rica, by establishing a culturally relevant elder care model. Honoring Dr. Pablo Ortiz's legacy, and partnering with the Interamerican Center for Global Health (CISG), faculty at the University of Costa Rica (UCR), and the NGO Hands for Health, this initiative will conduct a thorough needs assessment and establish sustainable partnerships. By analyzing current elder care practices, health challenges, and community preferences, the project aims to lay the groundwork for future research and funding applications. The assessment will examine disease prevalence, caregiving methods, and cultural perspectives and practices to ensure that the proposed solutions align with community values. The goal is to improve elder care infrastructure and services by integrating traditional knowledge with contemporary health practices. This approach seeks to enhance the daily lives of Ngäbe-Buglé elders and create a model of care that respects cultural heritage while addressing modern health challenges. This comprehensive strategy has the potential to transform elder care into an effective, respectful, and sustainable component of community health, setting a precedent for similar initiatives in other Indigenous communities. Ultimately, this project seeks to improve the quality of life for Ngäbe-Buglé elders and can contribute valuable insights to gerontology and elder care practices globally.