This manual was written by Don Thibedeau, Social Worker (Denakké, Fairbanks) and Jordan P. Lewis, Ph.D., MSW, CPG (Aleut/Unangan, Village of Naknek).
This training manual was developed with the hope of easing the transition of Alaska Native Elders to facility-based living. Denali Center was selected for 
this study because of its reputation as a model facility for incorporating culture and assisting Alaska Native Elders with the transition to institutional-based living. The goal of this manual is to ease the stress associated with relocating and promote optimal health and wellbeing among your Elders and to start discussions in your facility that may lead to the implementation of some of these activities.
This manual will discuss how the Denali Center has been able to successfully integrate cultural activities and traditional foods. It is the hope that this manual can serve as a guide of how long-term care and skilled nursing facilities can incorporate cultural activities for the Elders that will improve their quality of life and honor their cultural identity, language, values, and customs.
Click the link below to read about the Denali Center, and how healthcare facilities can be more culturally inclusive.
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