American Indian and Alaska Native Elder Health in California

As more American Indians live to adulthood and old age, the elderly population 55 and older is projected to increase from 13% in 2000 to 26% in 2050 as a proportion of the total AIAN population. This shifting demographic profile calls for focused attention on health status. This study analyzed data from the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS). CHIS contains the largest known random sample of AIANs - 6,550 adults. This study utilized a Community Based Participatory Approach, using an advisory board composed of native and non-native experts to focus the study, assist in interpretation, and disseminate findings; it is endorsed by 24 tribes, 13 urban Indian organizations, four federal agencies and many more. This presentation will contain an epidemiologic profile on native elders compared to other racial and ethnic populations. The presentation includes the following health conditions and risk behaviors: diabetes (e.g. over one-half of native elders have been diagnosed with diabetes), heart disease is a fellow traveler with diabetes; and disabling conditions (e.g. native elders have the highest prevalence of multiple falls in the past year). We will report demographic data, including: where Native elders live, poverty (e.g. Native elders are 2-3 times more likely to be poor or near poor than non-Latino whites). Finally, we will present data on access to care. Understanding the disease burden among California AIAN elders will enable service providers, health advocates, and policy makers to set priorities and allocate resources that will benefit the health and well being of this growing population.