Mate wareware: Understanding 'dementia' from a Māori perspective

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Indigenous Studies
• Public Health

Background:

• Dementia, referred to as mate wareware in Māori, impacts the spiritual dimension (wairua) of Indigenous people in Aotearoa New Zealand.
• Understanding Māori perspectives on dementia is crucial for culturally appropriate care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate Māori understandings of dementia, its causes, and management strategies for family members.
• To explore the role of cultural factors and traditional values in dementia care within Māori communities.

Main Methods:

• Kaupapa Māori research methodology was employed, involving 223 Māori elders (kaumātua) in 17 focus groups across seven regions.
• Data collection included interviews with eight whānau (extended families) from the Waikato region, followed by audio recording, transcription, coding, and thematic analysis.

Main Results:

• Māori conceptualize mate wareware as affecting the wairua, with findings elucidating perceived causes of the condition.
• Aroha (love, compassion) and manaakitanga (care, support) are central to caregiving for whānau members with mate wareware.
• Cultural activities were identified as protective factors, optimizing individual functioning within whānau and community.

Conclusions:

• Whānau play a critical role in caring for elders with mate wareware and promoting spiritual well-being.
• There is an urgent need for information to empower whānau in managing dementia care.
• Collaborative healthcare practices are essential, requiring practitioners to integrate mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge) for culturally responsive care.