Honoring and Preserving Culture Through Indigenous Cultural Generative Acts to Reduce Generative Mismatch and Improve the Health of All Generations

Abstract

Abstract The gerontological literature predominantly focuses on aging-related losses and less on the gifts people acquire as they age. Alaska Native Elders have experienced a lifetime of adversity but have also remained resilient. One characteristics of successful aging among Alaska Native Elders is their commitment and passion for sharing their teachings with the youth. Generativity is concerned with using personal resources to improve the quality of life for future generations. Although not commonly used in gerontological social work research, it is a cultural practice among Indigenous Elders. For this chapter, 108 interviews with Alaska Native Elders explored successful aging. This chapter examines how generativity can be adapted to meet the changing needs and desires of the younger generations and bridge the generative mismatch happening between generations. It also explores innovative and culturally responsive ways to teach the youth and provide a sense of purpose and meaning for Elders.

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