What is NAEJI?

Enhancing Communication with Native American Elders for Nurses

Effective communication is a cornerstone of quality nursing care, especially when addressing the unique needs of Native American elders. Respectful and culturally sensitive communication not only enhances the care experience but also fosters trust and rapport between nurses and elders.

Native American elders hold a revered status within their communities, often seen as keepers of wisdom and tradition. It’s essential for nurses to understand and respect these cultural values. Elders may prefer to communicate in their Indigenous language and may value spiritual practices such as smudging, singing, and other forms of prayer. ⁴ Here are some considerations for nurses serving Native American elders:

Consent and Capacity: An elder’s ability to make decisions is influenced by their cognitive and functional capacities. Nurses should be aware of the factors affecting consent and capacity, including medical conditions, cognitive functioning, and the risk of undue influence. ⁵ It is important to ensure that elders can make informed decisions freely and voluntarily. ³

Elder-Focused Assessments: Conducting thorough and culturally sensitive assessments is vital in providing appropriate care for Native American elders. These assessments should ensure that the elder’s choices are consistent with their values, preferences, and patterns, respecting their lifetime values and preferences, even if they differ from the norm. ¹

To effectively communicate with Native American elders, we encourage nurses to:

Use Respectful and Gentle Language. Avoid terms that may be perceived as disrespectful or dismissive. Be mindful of the tone and volume of your voice
Pay Attention to Non-verbal Communication. Observe body language and facial expressions. Maintain appropriate eye contact, as it can vary in significance across different cultures. Be patient and give elders time to express themselves. ⁴
Build Trust and Rapport. Show genuine interest in the elder’s life and experiences. Engage in active listening and validate their feelings and concerns. Respect their autonomy and involve them in decision-making processes
Identify and Report Abuse. Familiarize yourself with the common signs of abuse for elders. ⁴ Conduct thorough screenings using tools like the Hwalek-Sengstock Elder Abuse Screening Test and the Native Elder Life Scale. ⁴

Elder abuse can manifest in various forms, including physical, emotional, sexual abuse, neglect, and spiritual abuse. ² Most tribes have special jurisdiction or policies for elder abuse cases through their elder abuse codes. ² Report suspected abuse to appropriate authorities, such as Adult Protective Services (APS) or tribal law enforcement. To learn more, visit our webpage Elder Abuse Codes.

By being mindful of how we communicate with Native American elders and understanding the factors affecting their consent, capacity, and potential abuse, we can provide effective, compassionate, and culturally conscious care. Continuous learning is vital in ensuring that our interactions are respectful and meaningful.

For more information on serving and caring for Native American Elders, we welcome you to visit our website at iasquared.org.

The International Association for Indigenous Aging (IA2) is a 501(c)3 non-profit educational association dedicated to improving the lives of indigenous elders. Our mission is to ensure the provision of quality services and resources, expand opportunities for community involvement, and protect the rights of elders, including their freedom from abuse and neglect.