Abstract:

The provision of effective and appropriate home modification services to Indigenous Australians may be limited by numerous barriers in cross cultural communication and understanding. Differing spiritual, health and care belief systems, in conjunction with differing methods of communication and daily living practices, may impact the delivery of home modification services to Indigenous communities. This poster seeks to increase peoples' understanding of Indigenous Australian culture and the interaction between the western medical system and indigenous health practices, health belief systems and methods of communication. In addition, the poster assesses the considerations necessary when making modifications in Indigenous homes. An increased knowledge of the context within which modifications are delivered to indigenous communities should enable more appropriate home modification service delivery on behalf of non-indigenous service providers, facilitating cross cultural understanding and respectful interaction between indigenous and non-indigenous parties.