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Updated: May 20, 2026

Highlighting and Reducing the Impact of Negative Aging Stereotypes During Older Adults' Cognitive Testing
Published on: January 24, 2020
Resilience and stereotyping: the experiences of Native American elders
Donna M Grandbois1, Gregory F Sanders
1College of Pharmacy, Nursing, and Allied Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58108-6050, USA. donna.grandbois@ndsu.edu
Purpose:
The lived experiences of Native American elders regarding the effects of stereotypes on resilience were examined.
Method:
This qualitative study emphasized culturally compatible methods of traditional storytelling and featured interpretive analysis.
Results:
Themes revealed were the following: (a) having the ability to successfully bridge cultures fostered resilience and inspired self-confidence, (b) a strong sense of identity was a core element of resilience, (c) being responsible and accountable inspired a sense of pride, (d) educational attainment and employment fostered resilience, and (e) cultural resilience was a key component when confronting stereotypes. Although stereotyping has had profound effects, these first Americans have taken the best of both worlds and successfully integrated them to live successful, well-adjusted lives.
Discussion:
These findings suggest that disparities in mental and physical health could be addressed by building on the unique foundation of cultural resilience embodied by these Native elders.
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