Kwa-Thema – Mbusi Ndala Funeral Parlour marked Mandela Day by restoring hope and improving the vision of 30 elderly residents through free eye examinations and spectacles during an outreach programme held at its Kwa-Thema offices on July 22.

The beneficiaries, selected from the funeral parlour’s client base and the Siyaphila Prayer Group, received comprehensive eye screenings and, where needed, free spectacles through a partnership with Lane Optometrists.

The parlour’s director, Ephie Ndala, explained that the purpose of the initiative is to support elders by giving back.

“We worked in partnership with Lane Optometrists. We felt the need to focus on eyesight because seeing is important. Elders have so many challenges and giving back might ease the baggage,” she explained.

She further cited that many cannot even afford to get their eyes checked. Ndala thanked the optometrist for partnering with them and having the heart to help where they can too.

Optometrist Tinyiko Mahuntsi said that, as Lane Optometrists, they believe in giving back to the community. She cited that they serve the community because they are part of it.

“Our practice was founded in a black community, and I was born and raised in Thembisa.

“I am proud to serve my community as an optometrist. Most elderly people are afraid to consult an optometrist because they believe they will eventually go blind,” she said.

“My advice is that they should come for an eye examination before any condition becomes severe.

“Regular eye tests, at least every two years, allow us to detect eye conditions early and provide the necessary treatment before they worsen.”

Mahuntsi encouraged everyone, not only the elderly, to have their eyes examined regularly.

“We are seeing more eye conditions developing, especially within the black community, that were not as common in the past.

“Visiting your nearest optometrist for regular eye examinations helps us detect and manage these conditions early, which can prevent avoidable vision loss,” she advised.

One of the beneficiaries of the initiative, William Mkhonto, said he is beyond grateful to have formed part of such an incredible initiative.

“I got my glasses two years ago and had to get new ones, but they are too expensive. Receiving a free eye test plus free spectacles will make a huge difference in my daily life,” he said.