This dissertation research by Janell Smith, PI Brian Saylor, at the University of Alaska Anchorage, Institute of Circumpolar Health, is to examine the kin networks of Alaska Native elders in rural and urban communities and determine the effects of these networks on the health of these elders. The investigators seeks to explore the hypothesis that extended kinship networks has a positive effect on the physical health, as well as the economic and social well-being of Alaska Natives elders. The research will build on a harvest and food sharing dataset collected by the State of Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) with the addition of data on health, economic, and social indicators. In addition to the rural data, the investigator will add comparative survey data of urban households.
