By: SANJOY AKOIJAM, RINHORLA SHADANG, KANGABAM AMARDEEP, HAOBIJAM VOKENDRO
Aging patterns in communities worldwide are influenced by traditional lifestyles and cultural practices, in addition to biomedical factors. Few studies have examined the socio-cultural determinants of longevity in communities in India’s northeastern region. The main objective of this paper is to assess the association between social and cultural factors and longevity among the Tangkhuls of Ukhrul District, Manipur. This community-based exploratory cross-sectional study selected participants from four villages in Ukhrul District using snowball and purposive sampling. Data were collected through a pre-tested, semi-structured interview covering socio-demographic characteristics and potential socio-cultural determinants of longevity. Age ≥60 years was used as a proxy for longevity. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression in SPSS version 24. The study group was predominantly female (68%) and aged 70 or older (44%). Strong family ties (60%), regular community involvement (56%), and daily physical activity (68%) were common. In logistic regression, a positive view of participation in community activities predicted longevity (AOR = 2.51; 95% CI: 1.04–6.05; p = 0.041). Traditional diet, physical activity, and social support showed positive but not statistically significant associations. Preserving and promoting traditional cultural practices may support healthy aging in tribal communities.
