Ways of Grieving Among Ojibwe Elders

Abstract

Death, grief, and loss are common experiences for many individuals who identify as American Indian/Alaska Native, yet decidedly little is known about the lived experience of grieving in this population. To address this gap in the literature, researchers conducted a qualitative descriptive study exploring ways of grieving among 20 elders residing on a North American Ojibwe reservation. Findings derived via thematic analysis illustrate the variety of ways these elders respond to death: living through it, responding in Western or non-Traditional ways, drawing comfort from spirituality, and grieving as a community. Implications for culturally appropriate grief support for AI individuals and communities are provided.