INTRODUCTION

Authors

Marama Muru-Lanning, University of Auckland/Waipapa Taumata Rau
Hilary Lapsley, University of Auckland/Waipapa Taumata Rau

Abstract

This special issue of Pacific Studies focuses on well-being amongst indigenous Pacific elders. Well-being is a widely used concept, but research is lacking on how well-being is understood in Oceania. This issue involves studies on the well-being of elders from Rotuma, Papua New Guinea and Pollap, as well as Māori and Pacific peoples in Aotearoa/New Zealand.

Our collection emphasizes two pou, or posts, supporting well-being amongst Pacific elders. The first, aging in place, has a Pacific twist, where homeplaces are whenua, ancestral places of deep connection imbued with cultural and relational significance. Vā, meaning relational space, is a related concept. The second pou is dignity, reflecting the Oceanic understanding of aging as a positive life stage, encompassing spirituality, faith, identity, strength, wisdom and cultural knowledge. These articles, from indigenous and Western scholars, offer fresh perspectives on growing old in the Pacific.

Recommended Citation

Muru-Lanning, Marama and Lapsley, Hilary (2023) "INTRODUCTION," Pacific Studies Journal: Vol. 46: No. 1, Article 1.
Available at: https://digitalcollections.byuh.edu/pacific-studies-journal/vol46/iss1/1