Perceptions of health and well-being held by Native Hawaiian migrants.

Abstract

Background and purpose: Migration is often a challenging process. Native Hawaiians migrate from Hawaii to Las Vegas at an impressive rate, but no research has explored how migration affects their health and well-being. The purpose was to describe how Native Hawaiians in Las Vegas perceive their health and well-being and any changes therein since migrating.

Design: Using a qualitative descriptive design, 27 participants took part in semistructured interviews.

Findings: Most participants perceived no changes in health and minor changes in well-being. Many maintained their well-being by adapting valued activities to their new circumstances. However, 5 participants were deeply burdened by life in Las Vegas or longing for Hawaii, and their well-being suffered. They tended to identify barriers to well-being rather than ways to foster it.

Conclusion: Health care providers can help Native Hawaiian migrants by encouraging early access to the health care system in their new location and facilitating participation in helpful, adaptive behaviors.