The unsung heroes of traditional healers in healing and traditional medicine in dementia care for Indigenous populations in North America: an exploration of a compassionate, community-led care model

Abstract

This paper explores the critical role, experience, and wisdom of traditional healers in providing culturally-safe dementia care for Indigenous populations in North America, particularly as the prevalence of dementia in these communities continues to rise. It highlights the varying perceptions of dementia across cultures; for instance, while Western medicine often views it as a disease, many Indigenous cultures interpret it as a spiritual transition within the life cycle. A literature review conducted from 2000 to 2025 indicates that the marginalization of traditional healers within formal healthcare systems significantly hinders the delivery of culturally sensitive dementia care. Community-led models illustrate that the integration of traditional healing methods with contemporary practices is vital for offering respectful care to Indigenous people living with dementia. These models are grounded in concepts such as co-design, relational accountability, and “Two-Eyed Seeing, ” which establish traditional healers as crucial partners in the care process. The World Health Organization (WHO) formally recognized traditional healers as “community stakeholders” for dementia care and prevention globally. However, without the engagement and empowerment of traditional healers in the screening and diagnosis process of dementia, the implementation of the WHO Global Action Plan (2017–2025) on the public health response to dementia will be hindered, as these traditional healers are essential community stakeholders and allied partners for dementia care and prevention worldwide. The paper advocates for systemic reforms to support traditional healers and promote Indigenous self-determination in dementia care and calls for the development of medical education specifically tailored for traditional healers to establish a biocultural dementia care model that encompasses community support systems, spiritual approaches, a dementia-friendly environment, language preferences, and Indigenous culture, including arts, sciences, and philosophy.