Alexandra elders find healing in unity
Fabulous 50+ organisation helps seniors fight loneliness, ease stress and protect their health.
Alexandra’s seniors have discovered that combating loneliness is not just about companionship; it is a vital step toward protecting their physical health.
The Fabulous 50+ organisation is tackling the serious health risks that come with isolation, particularly how prolonged loneliness contributes to high blood pressure and other illnesses.
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The group recently hosted a joyful celebration at The Hub in Alexandra. The May 30th event brought together women over 50 to foster community, laughter, and connection in their golden years. Member Didi Phahlane was clear about the dangers many seniors face. After the age of 50, people become more vulnerable to illnesses, and stress combined with isolation makes the situation worse, she noted.
“When you are lonely, you pick up a lot of things, including high blood pressure and all those kinds of sicknesses,” Phahlane explained. “But when we gather together as members, you forget about all those things. It helps with high blood pressure and stress.”
Fellow member Tshidi Tanci said many seniors experienced deep loneliness after spending decades raising children and grandchildren. She said partners often passed away, and adult children moved on to build their own lives, leaving elders isolated and feeling invisible in their homes. “We console one another in terms of loneliness. We are tackling that loneliness,” she said.
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Member Thandi Leruli expressed her excitement, noting the event gave her a welcome break from their daily routines. “They took us out of our houses so that we can meet others who are our peers. They gave a break from having to constantly watch over our grandchildren.”
The gathering celebrated the important role many elderly women, especially grandmothers, continue to play in their families, while also shining a light on the isolation they often endure.
Fabulous 50+ aims to expand its reach through partnerships with other organisations, extending support to more seniors in Alexandra and the surrounding areas.
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