Infusing Culture into the Long-Term Care Environment to Improve Public Health and Quality-of-Life Experience

Abstract

This article examines long-term care quality from a cultural perspective, using Hawaii as its locale. Discussions will center around communication and language, socialization and activities, morals, values, and beliefs. Analyzing the role culture, cultural understanding, and cultural competence plays in the long-term care environment, especially to improve public health and quality of life, ensures programs and services meet the psycho-social needs and promote health, happiness, and satisfaction for the consumer. Based on this study, suggested strategies are relevant and recommended for other US and European long-term care providers to incorporate into their organizational culture when providing long-term care services and support (LTSS).