Diversity and aging. Cultural understanding as a powerful force in patient-centered healing

Culture describes a group whose members share common beliefs, values, traditions, symbols, language, and socialization styles. As an individual moves through the stages of life, he or she experiences a variety of cultures through membership in families, jobs, communities, and churches. Each culture contributes to the unique composition of a given individual. It comes as no surprise that elders older than 60 present the most diversity of any age group. This article discusses that diversity and assumptions that challenge the health care provider working in the community.