Our Elders, Our Strength

Elders are the roots of our communities. They carry our traditions, teach our languages, and remind us who we are. This May, during Older Americans Month and Mental Health Awareness Month, the Herring Pond Wampanoag Tribe lifts up our elders once again, honoring their wisdom and reminding our people that protecting their health is protecting our culture.

📊 The Crisis in Numbers

• The U.S. Census Bureau projects that the AI/AN elder population will double by 2060[^1].
  
• Indigenous elders face higher rates of diabetes, heart disease, and dementia compared to the general population[^2].
  
• Nearly 25% of Native elders live in poverty, increasing vulnerability to poor health outcomes[^3].
  

🌿 The Impact on Indigenous Communities

For Wampanoag people, elders are teachers, storytellers, and protectors. When their health is threatened, entire generations lose cultural connections. Supporting elders not only ensures their well-being but also strengthens youth, families, and the future.

⚠️ Recognizing the Signs of Elder Stress & Decline

• Isolation or withdrawal from gatherings
  
• Signs of depression, sadness, or anxiety
  
• Forgetfulness or confusion
  
• Struggles with mobility, breathing, or daily tasks
  

🌎 Pathways to Prevention

• Connection: Regular visits, shared meals, storytelling circles.
  
• Activity: Walking, drumming, and gardening to maintain health.
  
• Medical Screenings: Routine checks for blood pressure, diabetes, and dementia.
  
• Mental Health Support: Reducing stigma around depression and encouraging counseling when needed.
  

💜 What You Can Do

• For yourself as an elder: Stay engaged in ceremonies and community.
  
• For families: Support elders in appointments, share responsibilities, and celebrate their contributions.
  
• For community: Create spaces for elders to lead, teach, and be honored.
  

📌 Resources for Elder Health & Support

1. National Indian Council on Aging (NICOA) – www.nicoa.org
   
2. Eldercare Locator (Administration on Aging) – 1-800-677-1116, eldercare.acl.gov
   
3. SAMHSA Native Connections (Mental Health Support) – samhsa.gov/native-connections
   
4. National Resource Center on Native American Aging (NRCNAA) – www.nrcnaa.org
   
5. Crisis Text Line (24/7) – Text “NATIVE” to 741741, crisistextline.org/native
   

🌅 Closing

Elders are not only our past—they are our living present and the guides to our future. By lifting them up, we strengthen every generation.

Together, we heal.