A community diabetes education and gardening project to improve diabetes care in a Northwest American Indian tribe

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to design a culturally appropriate education program for a Northwest American Indian tribe.

Methods: Needs assessment revealed that a community approach rather than clinic-based education would address multiple barriers to diabetes care. Both process and outcome information are described for community and individual level evaluations.

Results: This intervention design consisted of community diabetes workshops called "How Healthy Am I?--Treating the Whole Person." The workshops represented a traditional view of health and included 4 specific themes: (1) taking care of the body, with an emphasis on diabetes care and physical activity; (2) mental health needs; (3) foods for healthy living; and (4) spirituality and healing the whole person. Workshops were designed to be social and informational, and involve all community members. A community garden was established to improve access to fresh produce and encourage exercise.

Conclusions: Prior to implementation of the community workshops and evaluations, the tribal government chose to discontinue receiving the federal funding for this project. Elements of a mutually respectful collaboration are outlined and discussed based on the experiences of this project.