LIMPOPO – As South Africa’s ageing population continues to grow, many elderly citizens rely heavily on the care and support of their families.

Yet, in some cases, they are increasingly being left without adequate assistance.

Community member Puleng Noosi has called on residents to look after their elderly loved ones, emphasising the importance of compassion and family responsibility.

Her message comes after she took it upon herself to care for an 85-year-old woman who had been abandoned by her family.

Noosi shared that caring for someone she barely knew was not an easy task, but through kindness and empathy, she stepped in to provide support when no one else would.

“It was not easy to look after someone I hardly knew, but I couldn’t turn my back on her,” said Noosi.

She explained that the elderly woman was often forgetful and became uncontrollable at times, which made caregiving a challenging experience.

Despite informing the family about the situation, Noosi said she received no help from them, even when the woman needed essentials such as diapers.

“The family members were not there to help during this difficult time,” she said. “Sometimes it was very hard, especially when she messed on herself and I had to clean her alone.”

Noosi urged families to take better care of their elderly relatives, warning that not everyone would be as patient or caring toward a stranger.

“Many people, especially some nannies who are hired to look after the elderly, end up abusing them or find it difficult to deal with such situations,” she added.

Noosi’s experience highlights a growing concern where elderly people are increasingly left without proper support systems.

Older citizens are among the most vulnerable, especially when families are unable or unwilling to provide consistent care.

Noosi’s message is a reminder that community compassion can make a difference, but that true change begins at home.