THE Association for the Aged (Tafta) celebrated the third anniversary of its national Elder Abuse Helpline with a major upgrade to its reporting system in an attempt to make it easier and safer for older persons across the Durban South to seek help.

Also read: Tafta residents sow seeds of hope

The revamped platform, now renamed to the Tafta Elder Abuse Line (Teal), boasts a new look and feel with the added WhatsApp and email reporting lines to ensure older persons can get in touch quickly and discreetly.

The helpline has logged 4 293 calls since its launch in November 2022 and facilitated 1 003 referrals to social workers, service centres, SAPS and specialised support partners. According to Tafta CEO Femada Shamam, the upgrade underlines their dedication to the protection of vulnerable elders throughout the country.

“Elder abuse remains one of the most under-reported violations in South Africa. Our enhanced reporting channels give older persons, caregivers and communities multiple safe ways to reach us. Help must always be accessible, immediate and confidential,” said Shamam.

New features:

There is a number exclusive to WhatsApp at 072 459 2613 for real-time reporting, queries and advice. Tafta has also introduced a new email channel at help@tafta.org.za, offering a discreet written option for those who would want to report in detail.

Tafta said the expanded channels are intended to remove barriers for elders who may feel unsafe or hesitant to report abuse occurring within their homes or communities.

Carmel Murugen, from Tafta’s Divisional Manager of Research, Strategy and Development, shared that the call trends from 2022 show that financial exploitation, emotional/psychological abuse and neglect are the most common forms of abuse reported.

Yoshina Kistensamy, Operations Divisional Manager, stressed the importance of elders speaking out against abuse, as well as using the various avenues.

“We know many elderly people fear reporting abuse because they rely on the very individuals who may be harming them. By expanding access through WhatsApp and email, we are lowering barriers, enabling easier reporting and ensuring that elders are not left to suffer in silence.”

Contact:

Teal remains a free, confidential and accessible service, manned by social workers specially trained in the field of elder abuse interventions. Reports can be made via WhatsApp at 072 459 2613 or email help@tafta.org.za.

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