The Elder Services encourages our tribal citizens to be self-sufficient, ensure that vulnerable elders are protected, and provides services in a manner that acknowledges and preserves our tribal culture.  Cherokee Nation citizens age 50 and above who are frail, low-income, who may have difficulty performing daily living functions, or who may be disabled may receive assistance.  Special emphasis is placed on assisting elders who are geographically and socially isolated or who have limited English speaking ability.

Nutrition Services

Nutrition Services provides congregate (meals are eaten together as a group) and homebound meals to elderly Indians in the fourteen Senior Nutrition Sites operated throughout the Cherokee Nation.

Cherokee Family Caregivers

Cherokee Family Caregivers is a respite program for Cherokees who are providing primary care to an elder age 55 and above that cannot complete 2 or more functions of daily living (i.e., bathing, dressing, toileting, etc.) or for Cherokee’s who are the primary caregiver to children under age 18 who reside with them in the home (Grandparents Raising Grandchildren).

Elder Advocacy

Elder Advocates are social workers (5) stationed in the major field offices Sallisaw, Jay, Catoosa, Vinita, and Tahlequah.  They help the elder gain access to services, referral to other services provided by Cherokee Nation.

Victim of Crime Advocacy & Comprehensive Tribal Victim Assistance Program

These programs help elder victims of crime access services from different resources so they can get their life on track after a crime has been committed against them.

Elder In Need

The Elder in Need (EIN) program is an energy assistance program specifically for Cherokee elders who are age 60 and above.  The elder must reside in the Cherokee Nation jurisdictional area and meet an income guideline. 

For additional information call 918-453-5422 or 1-800-256-0671 toll-free.