Elder Care Activities
Many people think of an elder as someone 65 or older–often because that’s when Medicare begins. But in American Indian and Alaska Native communities, being an elder is about more than age.
Each tribe defines "elder" in its own way. Some may consider someone of a certain age to be an elder, while others base it on a person's role, wisdom, and contributions to the community – not their age. Elders are often respected for their knowledge, guidance, and connection to culture.
Being an elder is about more than age – it's a time to stay involved, share wisdom, and continue growing through purpose, connection, and community.
The Indian Health Service (IHS) is dedicated to improving elder care in American Indian and Alaska Native communities. Through partnerships with tribes, urban Indian organizations, and federal agencies, our Elder Care team supports longer, healthier lives for elders, their caregivers, and their families.
We are guided by values rooted in strong partnerships, cultural strength, innovation, and compassion. We honor tribal sovereignty and believe the best models of care come directly from the communities we serve.
According to the 2024 National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease, the U.S. Census Bureau estimates that the number of people aged 65 and older in the United States will almost double to 84 million by 2050.
Additionally, IHS reports that American Indians and Alaska Natives born today have a life expectancy that is 5.5 years less than the U.S. all races population (73.0 years compared to 78.5 years). This disparity highlights the importance of targeted health interventions to support the well-being of Native elders.
The IHS Elder Care team is focused on:
- Addressing high-priority topics like dementia, fall prevention, medication safety, and elder abuse.
- Exploring innovative approaches to long-term care to address emerging needs.
- Ensuring culturally tailored services that reflect community values and traditions.
- Expanding awareness of and access to services that promote elder and caregiver well-being.
- Increasing the Indian health workforce's knowledge, understanding, and capacity to provide care that meets the unique needs of older adults.
Through open communication and shared leadership, we work to build respectful, community-driven solutions for elder care.
Collaborations and Partnerships
Collaborations and partnerships are central to our approach. To achieve our goals, we work with federal agencies, including:
- Administration for Community Living (ACL)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)
In addition, we actively participate in the following national advisory councils to guide our work and elevate the voices of American Indian and Alaska Native communities:
- The Advisory Council on Alzheimer's Disease Research, Care, and Services, established under the National Alzheimer's Project Act (NAPA)
- The RAISE Act Family Caregiving Advisory Council
- Veterans Administration (VA)
By working together, we strengthen elder care programs, enhance service delivery, and more effectively tackle critical health challenges.
Addressing Alzheimer’s Disease
In 2021, we received first-time funding to address Alzheimer's disease and related dementias in American Indian and Alaska Native communities. Following input from tribal and urban Indian leaders, we launched the Alzheimer's Program to improve dementia care for elders and caregivers.
The program, which continues to collaborate with tribal and urban Indian organizations, focuses on four key areas:
- Grants, pilots, and program awards
- Education and workforce development
- Outreach and engagement
- Technical assistance and program support
These efforts not only address the physical health of elders but also their emotional and spiritual well-being, ensuring comprehensive and culturally sensitive care.
Ongoing Commitment
STAY CONNECTED
Join our IHS Elder Care LISTSERV to stay connected.
Through the Elder Care and Alzheimer's Programs, IHS remains devoted to improving elder care services, supporting caregivers, and fostering innovative approaches to long-term health outcomes. Together, we honor the strength and resilience of our elders while ensuring they receive the care they deserve.
Contact Us
Contact us by using by filling out our online contact form, or by sending us an email.
