Within the practice of traditional medicine and healers, Elders are practitioners, often serving as “psychologists, spiritual leaders or counsellors” who are parts of a living, evolving belief system. Amongst Indigenous societies, multiple components are not fixed or static. It would be safe to suggest the concepts are evolving, while the characteristics remain steeped in cultural principles, values and beliefs. The goal of medicine, and the role of the healers and Elders, are to care for the mind, body and spirit of the people. The needs of the people have changed over time. The challenge is adapting the concepts to fit.
