Year of Publication
2025
College
Undergraduate Education
First Advisor
Kimberly Parker
Second Advisor
Adriane Grumbein
Abstract
Nicoya, Costa Rica, one of the five Blue Zones of the world, offers valuable insights into mental health and aging amongst their senior populations. This thesis explores the self-care practices, and well-being habits of its senior citizens through in depth interviews and photovoice approach. The study aims to understand what aspects of their lives influence their well-being and mental health the most, including resources and family support available to them. Findings highlight the importance of intergenerational relationships, social connections, creativity and culturally rooted self care practices. Through the sharing of Nicoya's elders' perspectives, this research is able to expand the existing knowledge about resilience in aging populations and develop culturally sensitive interventions to help seniors worldwide.
Recommended Citation
Rodriguez Soto, Daniela, "Mind Portraits: Revealing Perceptions on Mental Health in Costa Rican Older Adults from Nicoya—An Oral Narrative and Photovoice Exploration in a Blue Zone" (2025). Gaines Fellow Senior Theses. 36.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/gaines_theses/36
