Older Matses women are much respected and valued in Matsés society for their knowledge and wisdom. Typically, it is elderly Matsés woman who process plants and cure with traditional medicines. Elderly Matses women possess much knowledge of traditional healing and about the animal spirits that are used to cure. Being animists, these natives believe that animal spirits are always present and that they determine sickness and health. Older women typically have more skills and have wider exchange networks in order to obtain food. Matsés mothers form a strong bond with their children, and this bond is particularly evident between a woman and her sons.