Posts: Don't Ask Your Doctor How to Live Longer; Ask Hispanic Families (11-05-2010) - Abundant Community

http://www.abundantcommunity.com/home/posts/john_mcknight/parms/1/post/20101105_dont_ask_your_doctor_how_to_live_longer_ask_hispanic_families.html

John McKnight, Professor of Education and Social Policy and Co-Director of Asset Based Community Development Institute, Northwestern University, Chicago Illinois, ponders in his blog a recent study by Elizabeth Arias, a demographer with the National Center for Health Statistics.  Elizabeth Arias, hypothesizes that the Hispanic longevity may have to do with cultural factors such as their close family and social networks.

I've pondered if identifying with one or more of the 12 Social Determinants of Health results in a life-sentence of of dis-ease, depression and hopeless struggle.  The interpretation of this study leans toward the possibility of living a long life, despite low income or other determinants.  The factor making the difference is culture, a place of belonging, a social network.  We can live productive, satisfying lives in spite of difficulties.  Interaction and connection with others may be a key to this resiliency.  Our perspective on the world also influences our health.  How does my attitude affect my daily life and those around me?