Definitions of health: comparison of Hispanic and African-American elders.

OBJECTIVE(S): The purpose of the study was to describe definitions of health in Hispanic and African American elders. METHOD(S): This study employed a qualitative framework conducted through a doctoral-level multicultural nursing course. Quasi-statistics and a semi-structured interview format tabulated a frequency in themes in the sample. Hispanic and African American clients at senior citizen centers comprised the convenience sample. Data collection occurred concurrently and the raw data was then shared throughout the class, which led to the study's major limitation. RESULT(S): Eight reoccurring themes were identified: spirituality, without pain/feeling good, positive attitude with good mentality, high priority, independent/active, health promotion/maintenance, socialization, and helping others. CONCLUSION(S): Consistency was found between the existing literature and the results of the study. Differences were discovered between the groups, however more similarities were identified. The study results serve as a reminder to the importance in avoiding stereo-types when caring for individuals from any cultural background. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]