Here’s how to include your elderly loved ones this festive
The Constitution guarantees the elderly the rights to the following...
The population of the elderly is increasing and so is the nation’s wisdom which should be tapped into and preserved for posterity.
This was said at the Roman Catholic Church in Rivonia by Angie Makwetla, a commissioner of the South African Human Rights Commission, who lamented society’s exclusion of the elderly, and their knowledge and wisdom when trying to solve challenges the nation faces.
Makwetla told the elderly from Joseph Gerard Foundation Home of Peace in Alex, “We exclude them to our peril, hence the ongoing turmoil and continuing struggle to achieve social cohesion, peace and prosperity.”
Read: Abused elderly urged to consider old-age homes
They were on an outing sponsored by the Alex police, away from the hustle and bustle that surrounds them at their care home near the Pan Africa Mall. They received treats, meals, blankets and slippers and, found comfort and joy in the festive mood.
Makwetla urged society and the families of the elderly, who gathered for the occasion, to use the season as a time to recognise and tap into the wealth of knowledge. “Many of them live longer due to improved living conditions and would go on longer if supported well by their families,” said Makwetla.
“We should, in our gatherings, draw from their knowledge on family issues, history and general social matters [to find] solutions to social challenges. We should minimise their confinement in places of care and bond with them more, especially the grandchildren who they yearn to see the most.”
She said the commission wants the elderly to pass on their values and wants to make sure that the elderly are available to society by protecting them and promoting their rights, which are enshrined in the Constitution.
The Constitution guarantees the elderly the rights to:
- Life and dignity
- Not to be discriminated against
- Security
- Not to be exploited
- Access to health care, sufficient food, water, social security and help to support themselves
- Basic education including adult basic education.
Makwetla decried the victimisation of the elderly through gender-based discrimination, and the abuse and threats of economic isolation when they have no prospect for employment. “A recent investigation revealed they were mostly abused by family members and the community, who should be their primary protectors. They are also denied safety and security in care facilities [and] some of them die from fires,” she said.
“Only when we have a caring culture will we be able to maximise our gains from their twilight years before they are gone forever.”
Details: South African Human Rights Commission 011 887 3697.
