Stop abusing senior citizens

Social development MEC encourages communities to take care of the elderly

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Families must care for elders in their communities, as the Department of Social Development issues a stern warning against ongoing abuse of senior citizens.

KZN Social Development MEC Mbali Shinga hosted a combined recognition of International Albinism Awareness Day, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, and International Deaf Blindness Awareness Day in Ngodini within Big 5 Hlabisa Local Municipality on Friday.

Addressing attendees, Shinga said, “Although there are old age homes, we encourage that they are kept and taken care of in their communities.”

Shinga said her department will not hesitate to intervene when the safety of senior citizens is at risk.

To further support those caring for the elderly, she outlined the Grant-in-Aid.

“This social grant is available for older persons who require full-time care, allowing them to pay a caregiver who assists them with daily tasks.”

More inclusive job creation

Shinga also highlighted the critical importance of economic inclusion, stressing the need to create job opportunities for persons with disabilities.

She called on the public and private sectors to break down barriers to employment, ensuring people with disabilities have equal access to economic participation.

SD Manzini, speaking on behalf of the provincial chairperson of the Disability Sector, Sindi Cebisa, expressed gratitude to the department for addressing the needs of those with disabilities.

A representative from the uMkhanyakude District and provincial chairperson for Older Persons, MJ Mdlalose, reminded the community of the invaluable role elders play as the archives and historians of society.

“We have to take care of the elders and not abuse them, as they are the archives and historians of our communities,” he said.

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