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Essay / Patient Empowerment in Chronic Illness - 2673
IntroductionThe central theme of this journal will cover the empowerment and spirituality of people with chronic illnesses in the aging population with a focus on gender and different cultural backgrounds . I attempt to show how the literature on this topic has progressed to the point where crucial factors related to cultural context, spirituality, and belief systems affect how chronically ill people improve their health and well-being by being empowered by their spiritual and cultural background. (Johnson, Elbert-Avila, Tulsky, 2005) shows how the influence of spiritual beliefs and practices affects the specific culture of African Americans in a positive and beneficial way for older adults with chronic illnesses. The study showed that AAs request specific life-sustaining therapies at the end of life much more than Caucasians. Spirituality appears to be one of the primary sources of meaning and purpose and is also used as a framework for people to interpret their life experiences. The perspective of an elderly Native American woman is expressed in an academic article (Levi, 1998). In indigenous religious experience, Mother Earth and Father Sky are used for guidance and healing, as well as the Sun Dance, the Ghost Dance and others. The shaman or healer uses herbs and techniques and also contacts the spirit world for assistance in healing. The Native American Elder Woman is connected to nature and the natural healing power of medicinal plants and healing energies. It also involves the aspect of Native American spirituality and healing the chronically ill by restoring their cultural identity and participating with the community in soul and body healing practices and also with middle of paper.... . .uence of spiritual beliefs and practices on treatment preferences of African Americans. Ethnogeriatrics and Special Populations, 53(4), 23-34.Leetong, A. (January 2010). The model for improving the quality of life of chronic patients in the community through social support. Journal of Social Sciences, 6(1), 29-33. Levi, J. (March 1998). The embodiment of a working identity: power and process in Ramamuri ritual healing. American Indian Culture and Research Journal, 23(3), 13-46.Metcalfe, J. (2005, July). Management of patients suffering from long-term conditions. Nursing Standard, 19(45), 53-61. Wells, M. (October 2010) Resilience among older adults living in rural, suburban, and urban areas. Online Journal of Rural Nursing & Healthcare, 10(2), 45-53.Zola, IK (1989, October-December) Aging and disability: toward a unified agenda. Rehabilitation Journal 55(4), 6-9.