Senior citizens speak about how Covid-19 is affecting them

Anthony Paladin (84), a SAVF Huis Dien Bothma resident, longs for the day when he can come and go as he pleases.
As South Africa is under an adjusted level three of lockdown, the senior citizen only leaves the retirement village when necessary. Visits at Huis Dien Bothma were also prohibited for a few days in January in an attempt to curb the spread of the virus as people returned from holiday.
Paladin, who has been living in a flat at Huis Dien Bothma for 18 months, said for him the restriction of movement is the worst part of the lockdown.
“It’s frustrating that I can’t do what I did before. I’m used to visiting my neighbour, but now it’s prohibited. I also miss my children and grandchildren. I could only see my daughter twice last year.
“Furthermore, artists or people can’t come to Huis Dien Bothma to entertain us anymore,” he said.
He said he is now reading, watching television, cleaning his flat and working in his garden to pass time.
Moreover, the elderly resident stressed that the lockdown had a dire impact on his financial situation.
Paladin said he decided to stay positive despite the negative impact the pandemic had on the country.
“I’m privileged. My son tested positive for the virus but survived. My wife and I also had opportunity to go to Cape Town for the festive season,” he added.
He said he is eating healthy food and will continue to adhere to all Covid-19 protocols to protect himself against the virus.
Ray Badenhorst, tenant committee member and resident at Huis Dien Bothma, said most of the residents are coping under the circumstances.
“Some residents are just frustrated about the restriction of movement. It’s also affecting me. We can’t go out for a walk anymore, and the lack of exercise is having an impact on my wife’s sense of balance. I also miss going to church,” said Badenhorst, who has been living at Huis Dien Bothma for seven years.
Badenhorst highlighted that he is not afraid of contracting the virus as the centre is doing everything they can to prevent the spread of the virus.
Tiekie Mertens, manager at Huis Dien Bothma, explained that the retirement village is adhering to rules provided by government.

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