Lifestyle
What do the Amish base their lives around? (other than religion/Christianity)
HOME
children born at home, play/eat at home,
clothes made at home, chores at home
school/church is walking distance
retire at home, die/funeral at home
Do they believe in retirement homes?
No, they reside at home and are cared for by their family
2 main aspects that affect access to healthcare?
Transportation (horse and buggy), no phones in home
How long do they attend school?
Grade 1-8
Teachers are picked parents (don’t have certification). Focus on English, geography, penmanship, Bible lessons, English & German
Can they take birth control or divorce?
No (average family has 6 kids, intermarriage is very common)
What's one of the more important things a nurse can do when dealing with the Amish?
Respect their beliefs & feelings towards procedures/medicine
What happens if you break their moral law?
Ex-communication from the church
What is the leading cause of death?
Heart disease, then accidents, then genetic disorders (average age of death is 71)
Can they bear arms, take oaths, hold political office, or sue/reach out to authorities?
No
Can they have health insurance?
No, they do not go to the doctor unless absolutely necessary (and the elders give permission), and pay in cash only (use church aid if expensive)
Do they believe in using electricity?
Mostly no, not allowed in the home, can't use public power lines
Sometimes can use batteries/engines to cool milk tanks, or if ill family member needs it (with permission from the elders)
Do they use mainstream medicine?
No, they use folk medicine/home remedies