Examining First Nations Dementia Perspectives and Wholistic Relational Supports for Culturally Safe Risk Reduction, Assessment, and Post-Diagnosis Care in Northwestern Ontario - Brittany Skov (2025)

This MA thesis explores First Nations perspectives on dementia and culturally safe approaches to dementia risk reduction, assessment, and post-diagnosis care in Northwestern Ontario. Conducted in partnership with a regional First Nations-led organization, the study used community-based and wholistic research methods to examine how dementia is understood within Indigenous communities and to identify the relational supports that promote aging well. Drawing on stories and experiences shared by First Nations community members, the research highlights the importance of culture, kinship, land, and community connection in supporting dementia care and advancing culturally grounded health services.