Participant-Direction in a Culturally Diverse, Rural Population: The Hawaìi Community Living Program

The Hawaii Community Living Program was a participant-direction pilot project aimed at rural, multicultural, and community-dwelling older adults at risk of institutionalization. This evaluation examined participant outcomes, and explored the role of culture, health literacy, and rural settings in participant-direction programs. The program enrolled 91 participants and, of these enrollees, helped 84 (92.3%) participants avoid institutionalization and spend down to Medicaid. Findings indicated that Program Coaches needed to be culturally appropriate and creative in arranging for services and the delivery of goods and supplies. Results suggested that participants need to be health literate to direct their care, but further research is needed.