Visit Elders with Respect During COVID-19 - Take the Pledge!

Sheiaten’nikón:raren tánon shenorónhkwak ne iokhihsothokón:a - Take care of our elders with love.

Tóhsa iensewataweia’te tsi rati’teró:ton ne rotiksten’okón:’a tó:ka’ sanonhwáktani – Don’t go into the homes of the elders if you are sick.

Out of love and respect, I hope you will all join us in implementing this protocol within your own families and take initiative to be responsible relatives to our most vulnerable populations. Please do your part to keep our elders safe.

• Respect safe distancing. Do NOT enter into elders’ homes. Many of us may be asymptomatic and could potentially transfer viruses and bacteria into the home, unknowingly.

• Continue to communicate and call frequently. Check in from a distance and ask what groceries are needed, speak your language, tell stories. All of this is vital in practicing our cultures during this time.

• When delivering groceries, wear gloves and sanitize all items before dropping off on porch. If possible, set up a table outside where items can be properly sanitized and air dried.

• Make sure elders have the essentials: prescription medications, firewood, gas/ propane, etc.

• Designate one family member (preferably someone who has been quarantined the longest) to transport for doctor visits.

Elders are our most precious knowledge keepers- comprised of fluent language speakers, storytellers, oral historians, medicine bearers, spiritual leaders, and traditional food knowledge holders, etc. Let’s start a movement to protect our elders, and acknowledge we need to do this together.

Nia:wen kowa!

Tsi’ Tetewatatkens Senior Center Staff