MOKOPANE – The Basterspad Community Hall in Bakenberg was filled with community members on June 15 as Limpopo Government launched its campaign against elderly abuse.

This year’s theme, Building Strong Support for Elders, highlights the importance of standing up for and protecting senior members of society.

“With a growing global population of elderly people, and as longevity increases, abuse of the elderly is an increasing and serious problem that affects health and human rights and can cause death. It is vital to raise awareness of it and thus prevent it whenever and wherever possible,” said Mogalakwena Mayor Ngoako Taueatsoala.

He highlighted that elder abuse is a global issue and can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse, as well as neglect. He stressed that elderly people are human and deserve the same dignity and respect as all other age groups.

Taueatsoala explained that elderly people are particularly vulnerable to abuse and often unable to defend themselves or seek help. Fear and infirmity can be major barriers, and abuse is not always easy to spot or challenge.

Some elderly individuals are isolated, having outlived family and friends, and some are abused in institutions where abuse may go unnoticed or be covered up. In some cases, authorities do not prioritise elderly abuse matters.

“Older persons need to be supported as they add value to communities. They provide caregiving support to vulnerable and orphaned children and, in some instances, maintain unemployed dependents in their families. We are here to raise awareness because we acknowledge that the elderly play a very critical role in society as caregivers,” Taueatsoala said.

He added that while the elderly continuously serve others, little emphasis is placed on their contributions.

“Their physical strength deteriorates with age, and they become highly susceptible to diseases, making them unable to defend themselves in dangerous or life-threatening situations, especially in cases of abuse or neglect. They become frail as their vulnerability increases.”

Taueatsoala expressed particular concern about the underreporting of elderly abuse due to fear of intimidation. He promised to implement more programmes to intensify awareness of elder abuse and reach out to more areas and communities.

He announced future plans for the municipality, in collaboration with various departments and mining houses, to organise health walks for the elderly under the supervision of marshals.

Additionally, the municipality plans to provide soup and snacks to the elderly to help meet their nutritional needs.

He acknowledged that communities require programmes addressing the care of older persons, substance abuse, care for persons with disabilities, child care, and other support programmes.

“Let’s come together to raise awareness, foster understanding, and promote respect for our elderly population. Together, we can build a safer and more supportive community for all generations,” Taueatsoala concluded.