Abstract
Issue addressed
An urban Aboriginal health and wellbeing program was implemented in 2011 to improve healthy eating and physical activity knowledge, attitudes and behaviours amongst a small group of local Aboriginal community members. The aim of this study was to evaluate the program on participant’s health and wellbeing.
Methods
A participatory action research method using photovoice was adopted. Following a period of familiarisation, 13 participants were each provided with a digital camera and asked to take photographs that represented health and wellbeing. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted where concepts of health and wellbeing, as well as perceptions of the program, as depicted through photographs were explored. Interviews were transcribed and analysed thematically.
Results
The meaning of health and wellbeing for participants in this study was underpinned by components of prolonging life and social and emotional factors. Motivation for attending the program was dominated by social benefits. Improvements in healthy eating, an increase in socialisation and the ability to cope with stress were expressed. Positive feedback about program activities and staff was provided and barriers were identified.
Conclusion
This study has uncovered facilitators, motivators, barriers and benefits relating to participation in an urban Aboriginal health and wellbeing program through the use of photovoice, thus providing implications for future health promotion and research.
So what?
Promoting and addressing the social benefits, in addition to the intended outcomes on behaviour and anthropometric changes associated with health and wellbeing programs that target Aboriginal people may help to increase and retain participation, thus improving the quality and duration of life for Aboriginal Australians.
An urban Aboriginal health and wellbeing program was implemented in 2011 to improve healthy eating and physical activity knowledge, attitudes and behaviours amongst a small group of local Aboriginal community members. The aim of this study was to evaluate the program on participant’s health and wellbeing.
Methods
A participatory action research method using photovoice was adopted. Following a period of familiarisation, 13 participants were each provided with a digital camera and asked to take photographs that represented health and wellbeing. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted where concepts of health and wellbeing, as well as perceptions of the program, as depicted through photographs were explored. Interviews were transcribed and analysed thematically.
Results
The meaning of health and wellbeing for participants in this study was underpinned by components of prolonging life and social and emotional factors. Motivation for attending the program was dominated by social benefits. Improvements in healthy eating, an increase in socialisation and the ability to cope with stress were expressed. Positive feedback about program activities and staff was provided and barriers were identified.
Conclusion
This study has uncovered facilitators, motivators, barriers and benefits relating to participation in an urban Aboriginal health and wellbeing program through the use of photovoice, thus providing implications for future health promotion and research.
So what?
Promoting and addressing the social benefits, in addition to the intended outcomes on behaviour and anthropometric changes associated with health and wellbeing programs that target Aboriginal people may help to increase and retain participation, thus improving the quality and duration of life for Aboriginal Australians.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Qualification | Masters |
| Publication status | Unpublished - Jul 2013 |