Honouring the elderly this October

The Week of Older Persons, observed annually, is one of the most coveted celebrations at The Association for The Aged (Tafta). The association will commemorate the resilience of older people through the Coronavirus pandemic.

With this year’s theme for International Day of Older Persons (observed on Friday, October 1) being ‘Digital Equity for All Ages’, Tafta will collaborate with LionPride Investment Holdings, using an internationally renowned health monitoring digital application, in launching the pilot of the digital health care solution to Tafta elders, both in its homes and in the communities it serves.  

Using this telemedicine platform, elders will have access to a virtual symptom checker that collects relevant patient information prior to consultation and simplifies the documentation process, before having the opportunity to attend a video consultation with a healthcare provider or to connect through medical chat. The platform also allows for electronic prescriptions to be issued if needed.  

Deven Govender, CEO of LionPride Investment Holdings, the investment company launching the online platform in South Africa, shared his excitement for this project saying, “Older Persons are the cornerstone of any community where traditions are passed down as well as the institutional memory of that community. We believe that it is imperative that they have access to health and care services currently provided by Tafta, which technology will enhance, making waiting times shorter, using artificial intelligence to assist nurses and video consultation with doctors.”  

Following the launch of the internal pilot, Tafta will assess the success of the virtual platform before sharing their telemedicine experience. “I am a firm believer that healthy minds lead to healthy bodies, which lead to healthy societies. The opportunity to launch a healthcare system that uses artificial intelligence ties in with our commitment to a decade of healthy ageing that aims to use technology to assist our elders to connect, have fun and be well. It is these empowering acts that will result in holistic wellbeing, and make the greatest impact toward a decade of healthy ageing,” said Tafta CEO Femada Shamam.  

Shamam said South Africans are encouraged to honour and pay tribute to our elders, and raise awareness on issues that affect and impact senior members in our society.

“This 7-day commemoration also serves as a prelude to active ageing week that begins on Monday, October 4. During the active ageing week, people aged 50 and above are encouraged to take advantage of all life has to offer,” she said.  

With the joint goals of honouring elders and promoting wellness in mind, the association dedicates the entire month of October to providing their elders with a line-up of mentally and physically stimulating activities by hosting sports days, laughter therapy sessions, fancy dress socials and informative talks on issues affecting older people.  

For more information on how you can honour the elderly this month, contact Kemmy-Leigh Moodley on 031 332 3721 or email idpr@tafta.org.za