Trust is one of the most important elements of good health care.
Whether someone is receiving home care, receiving dialysis, managing a chronic condition with prescriptions, or rehabbing from illness, they need to feel comfortable sharing concerns, asking questions, and participating in decisions about their health. That trust often begins with something simple but powerful: feeling seen, heard, and respected.
America’s older adult population is becoming increasingly diverse. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly one in four adults age 65 and older identifies as part of a racial or ethnic minority group, and that percentage continues to grow. As communities become more diverse, culturally responsive care becomes increasingly important.
Research shows that when people feel respected and understood by healthcare providers, they are more likely to communicate openly, participate in treatment plans, and report higher satisfaction with their care. Trust helps people engage with services earlier, advocate for their needs, and build stronger relationships with caregivers and healthcare professionals.
Representation can help build that trust. Seeing staff members who speak your language, understand your traditions, or share similar lived experiences can create a sense of comfort and familiarity. Equally important are caregivers and healthcare professionals who approach every interaction with curiosity, respect, and a willingness to learn.
Good health care does not require everyone to have the same background. It requires a commitment to understanding the person behind the patient.
Cultural identity shapes aging experiences
For many older adults, cultural identity plays a key role in that experience. Language, traditions, family dynamics, faith, food, music, and life experiences all influence how people view health, caregiving, aging, and community. When care acknowledges and respects those experiences, it becomes more personal, meaningful, and effective.
July is BIPOC Mental Health Month, a time to recognize the unique experiences of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color communities and the factors that influence well-being throughout life. One of those factors is belonging.
The feeling of belonging is closely connected to mental, emotional, and physical health. Studies have found that older adults who maintain strong social connections often experience better overall well-being, while loneliness and isolation are associated with increased risks of depression, anxiety, cognitive decline, and other health concerns.
Cultural identity can strengthen that sense of belonging. Traditions, family relationships, religious practices, cultural celebrations, and community connections often provide comfort, meaning, and support throughout the aging process. These connections can become even more important during times of illness, caregiving, or life transitions.
When care providers recognize and respect these aspects of identity, they help create an environment where people feel valued rather than simply treated. And this happens from the very first meeting. Edwin’s story earlier this year demonstrates that it’s not just the care received, but how welcomed, respected, and supported people feel from the very start.
Community creates connection
For many older adults, Adult Day Health Care programs provide opportunities to maintain social connections, build new friendships, and remain engaged in their communities. While many people initially think of adult day programs as a source of supervision or support, they also serve another important purpose: creating meaningful opportunities for connection.
Participants gather for meals, activities, cultural celebrations, educational programs, therapy services, and social events. They share stories, experiences, traditions, and laughter. They form relationships with staff members and fellow participants who become familiar faces in their daily lives. Research consistently shows that social connection supports both physical and mental health.
In diverse communities like Brooklyn, these programs can help people maintain connections to cultural traditions while also building new relationships across backgrounds and experiences. The result is a stronger sense of community, purpose, and belonging.
Knowing what you need
To advocate for the care you want, it’s worth knowing what helps you feel fully seen. Take a few moments to reflect on your answers to these three questions:
- When you receive care or support, what makes you feel respected and understood?
Is it being listened to without interruption? Having your preferences remembered? Being able to speak in your preferred language? Feeling that your values and beliefs are respected?
- What parts of your identity would you want a caregiver or healthcare provider to know about you?
Think about your family traditions, culture, faith, life experiences, hobbies, career, or personal values. Which of these help tell the story of who you are?
- Where do you feel the strongest sense of belonging?
Is it with family? Friends? A faith community? A neighborhood group? An activity program? Understanding where you feel most connected can help identify the people and experiences that support your well-being.
There are no right or wrong answers. The goal is simply to identify what helps you feel valued, respected, and connected; the best care starts with understanding the whole person, not just their health needs.
Cultural safety is care. When people feel respected, understood, represented, and connected, they are more likely to thrive. And creating spaces where everyone feels they belong matters.
