International Association for Indigenous Aging - IA2

Today we are highlighting Structural and Systemic Factors, the fifth Indigenous determinant of health.

The determinants of health are: Indigenous Knowledge, Language and Identity, Land and Kinship, Sovereignty, and Structural/Systemic Factors

Structural and Systemic Factors:
• Historical mistreatment that continues to impact health and well-being
• Economic conditions that shape opportunities and access to resources
• Access to services and equitable access to goods and supports
• Disparities such as higher rates of AI/AN children involved in the child welfare system

Structural and systemic factors also play an important role in brain health and dementia. Barriers to care, long-standing inequities, and limited access to culturally appropriate services can delay diagnosis and support. Addressing these factors is essential to improving access, building trust, and ensuring better quality of life for individuals living with dementia and those who care for them.

Learn more about how The Healthy Brain Initiative (HBI) Road Map for American Indian & Alaska Native Peoples outlines five key Indigenous Determinants of Health to support wellness through a strengths-based, culturally centered frameworkhttps://www.alz.org/getmedia/0174f6d9-af2d-423d-84c6-c6fdc0aab804/hbi-road-map-american-indian-alaska-native-peoples.pdf

Today we are highlighting Neighborhood & Built Environment:

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has defined 5 Social Determinants of Health: economic stability, education, health care, neighborhood, and social context.

Where people live has a major impact on health. Factors in their environment includes access to safe housing and healthy foood, clean air and water, transportation, walkability - sidewalks, and green spaces. Supportive, well-resourced neighborhoods make it easier to stay active, meet daily needs, and remain connected to essential services. But unsafe or under-resourced environments can create barriers to health and increase risk for chronic conditions.

Neighborhood and built environment also matters to people living with dementia. Safe, walkable, and accessible spaces can help people with dementia stay engaged and maintain independence longer. In contrast, confusing or unsafe environments can increase disorientation, stress, and isolation. Additionally, healthy food, exercise, clean air and water, all contribute to lowering risk of developing dementia and improve brain health.

Learn more here:https://odphp.health.gov/healthypeople/objectives-and-data/browse-objectives/neighborhood-and-built-environment

IA2 American Indian and Alaska Native Brain Health E-News - April - 2026 - https://mailchi.mp/iasquared/ia2-american-indian-and-alaska-native-brain-health-e-news-fall-9948452