Pensioners help each other keep fit
Kwa-Thema pensioners remain fit beyond their age.
Kwa-Thema – A group of pensioners from Qhubeka Phambile Development are not allowing their age to prevent them from keeping fit and leading a healthy lifestyle.
They meet every week for exercise sessions and to make beadwork and other crafts. Some of the pensioners also participate in marathons of 21km and 42km.
These pensioners also help each other with advice on how to improve their diet and deal with stress.
A pensioner, Thuli Mofolo, said running has helped her regain her mobility after she fell ill and was forced to use a wheelchair.
Through her daily engagements in fitness activities and peer counselling, they have been able to fight off some of their chronic illness and stress and gain mental health.
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“I had given up on the dream of walking unaided until I joined the group in 2021. I am no longer using a wheelchair and only depend on crutches for balance.
“My doctor took me off some of the treatment I was on because I am healthier now than ever,” said Mofolo.
She said she is living proof that one can turn a new leaf in life by leading a healthy life and that it is never too late to take charge of your health.
Another pensioner Sibongile Mokoena said she is encouraging pensioners to join fitness groups in their areas.
“Many pensioners live alone and due to ill health, are secluded from the outside world. Their health quickly deteriorates.
“Through such initiatives, we can support each other as pensioners and find ways to resolve some of the challenges we face daily,” she added.
