Katen Kelly
Access to Culturallv Appropriate Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (AD ADRD) Healthcare for Indigenous People in British Columbia
Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) are on the rise and disproportionately impact Indigenous Peoples in Canada. Yet most research and healthcare practices have been developed without considering Indigenous worldviews of aging, memory, and wellness. This often leads to care that does not meet the needs of Indigenous communities. My project aims to change this by combining Indigenous knowledge with sociocultural neuroscience using a Two-Eyed Seeing approach that values both Indigenous and Western perspectives
In partnership with the Lil'wat and Kwakiutl Nations, and the First Nations Health Authority in British Columbia, I will explore the following question: What are the current strengths and challenges in providing culturally appropriate dementia care, and how can access and quality improved?
Phase One will involve interviews with Indigenous Elders, caregivers, anc healthcare providers to better understand the lived experiences of memory loss, resilience, and barriers to care. These findings will be validated in community sharing circles and translated into practical solutions, such as adapting cognitive screening tools and developinc staff training guided by Indigenous knowledge.
Phase Two will bring findings back to the community through a traditional feast, creating a meaningful space for discussion, feedback, and guidance on next steps.
This project builds on over two years of relationship-building, learning, and community engagement with Elders and health leaders. It is guided by OCAP庐 principles, community governance, and local priorities to ensure Indigenous leadership and benefit at every stage The outcomes will support the development of culturally safe, community-driven dementia care, while also informing broader healthcare systems. By centring Indigenous knowledge and priorities, this work will create a model for equitable, sustainable brain health strategies that Indigenous communities across Canada can adapt.