Community Partnerships & Impact
Heritage Health partners with Tribal organizations, state agencies, national aging leaders, and Hawaiʻi-based community groups to strengthen nutrition education for healthy aging and brain health.
Work spans educational resource development, national publications, policy guidance, and media engagement — all grounded in culturally respectful, practical approaches that help communities turn knowledge into action.
Publications and projects completed prior to 2025 may appear under the name Heidi Robertson.
Impact Highlights
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Contributed to national thought leadership on Indigenous food systems, obesity prevention, and healthy aging through publications with the American Society on Aging
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Developed culturally grounded nutrition resources and policy guidance in collaboration with Tribal programs, state aging agencies, and national Title VI partners
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Invited national and regional presenter on brain health, longevity, and practical nutrition strategies for older adults and caregivers
Educational Resources & Toolkits
These materials were designed to support older adults, caregivers, and aging service providers with clear, actionable guidance rooted in culture and community context.
Brain Healthy Nutrition
Created by the Brain Health and Risk Reduction team, this webpage offers brain-healthy recipes, tips, resources, and cultural foods that enhance brain health.
NSIP & Domestically Produced Food FAQ
Developed with the Nutrition & Aging Resource Center, this guidance supports Title III and VI providers in navigating Older Americans Act requirements related to domestically produced foods.
Nutrition & Brain Health: “Eat the Rainbow” Guide
Developed with the Hawaiʻi Executive Office on Aging and Brain Matters Hawaiʻi, this guide connects colorful local foods to cognitive health while highlighting local foods.
GoodHealthTV Vaccination PSA
Produced for the Inter Tribal Council of Arizona – Area Agency on Aging (Region 8), this public service announcement highlights intergenerational conversations around preventive health, vaccination, physical activity, and nutrition.
Healthy Food, Healthy Brain Rack Card Series
Created for the International Association for Indigenous Aging (IA2), this culturally grounded series offers practical nutrition messaging and traditional recipes for Indigenous elders.
Publications
Published work advancing conversations on Indigenous nutrition, aging, and community health.
by: Heidi Robertson and Nanette Taho
Generations Journal by American Society on Aging - 2024
Explores culturally grounded nutrition strategies to strengthen health and resilience among Indigenous elders.
"Tackling the Complex Issue of Obesity Among Indigenous Elders"
by: Heidi Robertson and Nanette Taho
Generations Journal by American Society on Aging - 2024
Examines structural and community-informed approaches to addressing obesity in aging Indigenous populations.
"Resurgence of Indigenous Food Traditions Helps Heal Bodies and Spirits"
by: Collette Adamsen, Victoria Wells Waabigekek, Michelle Short-Azure, Melissa Chlupach, Heidi Roberson and Kathryn L. Braun
Generations Now blog by American Society on Aging - 2024
Highlights the role of traditional food systems in promoting physical and cultural well-being.
Presentations & Media
Heidi has presented nationally on topics such as healthy aging, Indigenous food systems, brain health, and more.
Traditional Native Foods & Brain Health
July 21, 2023
American Indian & Alaska Native Resource Center for Brain Health Webinar Series For the International Association for Indigenous Aging (IA2)
Nutrition Guidance for Optimal Brain and Body Health
Developed with the Hawaiʻi Executive Office on Aging and Brain Matters Hawaiʻi, this guide connects colorful local foods to cognitive health while highlighting local foods.
Heart Healthy Traditional Foods
February 8, 2023
Title VI Monthly Webinar
For the Administration for Community Living, Administration on Aging (ACL | AoA)
Food as medicine: Nourishing Native American and First Nations elders for holistic health
November 9, 2023
ICAA Webinar Series - Defeat Malnutrition Today