Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved
Volume 25, Issue 4, 2014, Pages 1730-1747

Health literacy from the perspective of African immigrant youth and elderly: A photovoice project (Article)

Adekeye O.* , Kimbrough J. , Obafemi B. , Strack R.W.
  • a National Center for Primary Care, Dept. Community Health and Preventive Medicine, United States, Department of Public Health Education, Center for Youth, Family and Community Partnerships, The University of North Carolina, Greensboro, United States
  • b Department of Public Health Education, Center for Youth, Family and Community Partnerships, The University of North Carolina, Greensboro, United States
  • c Department of Public Health Education, The University of North Carolina, Greensboro, United States
  • d Department of Public Health Education, The University of North Carolina, Greensboro, United States

Abstract

Background. This project examines the views of African immigrants on health, access to health resources in the U.S., and perceived barriers to a healthy wellbeing faced by the elderly immigrants in the community. Methods. PhotoVoice methodology was used to evaluate the views of African immigrant youths and elderly drawn from a convenience sample. Participants were trained on the use of cameras and guided by research questions while taking photographs. The photographs were analyzed, coded into themes and presented to community resource representatives at a photo exhibit. Results. Emergent themes were: 1) nutrition, obesity and physical activity; 2) occupational regulation and educational opportunities; 3) feeling of security and public safety; 4) ethno-racial diversity and the health care system; 5) religiosity and social well-being. Discussion. These results have implications for health care professionals and community agencies serving immigrant populations. A deeper look into the health issues affecting this population is essential. © Meharry Medical College.

Author Keywords

Health literacy Photovoice African immigrants Elderly

Index Keywords

education Nutritional Physiological Phenomena human North Carolina obesity Aged ethnology Humans migrant psychology Adolescent male Emigrants and Immigrants female safety Africa nutrition photography Motor Activity health literacy employment
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84911457519&doi=10.1353%2fhpu.2014.0183&partnerID=40&md5=10081a9834c8de058e8e3d122cb4c3f1
DOI: 10.1353/hpu.2014.0183
ISSN: 10492089
Cited by: 8
Original Language: English