A collaborative effort between Phakamisa Elderly Organisation and various stakeholders saw senior citizens treated to a Heritage Day activation at Fleurhof Recreation Centre Hall recently.
Phakamisa aims to promote healthy lifestyles through activities such as sports, gym, choir games, etc targeting the elderly. The NPO does health awareness campaigns to prevent elderly abuse and the spread of disease working in collaboration with stakeholders such as social workers, police and the community.
“We visit the elders to check their well-being, collect medication from the hospital and provide support through the facilitation of one-on-one or group sessions,” Penny Luleka Sipango, chairperson of the organisation said during the opening remarks of the health talk.
The day saw 47 beneficiaries, seven stakeholders, and 14 staff members take part with the purpose of celebrating Heritage Day, therefore reminding the elders about their culture and origins while also educating them on their rights.
Among these stakeholders was Florida Police Station Commander, Colonel Tsotetsi who was welcomed by the elders with great appreciation and said that “umuntu ngumuntu ngabathu” (directly translating to people for the people by the people) a phrase which he strongly believes in, meaning a person is nothing without other people.
Tsotetsi expressed his love for the elderly during his speech and went on to wish them good health and well-being while advising them to not tolerate any type of abuse.
Bongani Ngwane, City of Johannesburg (CoJ) social worker spoke about the programs he provides and mentioned that he is available to be called for any assistance (counselling, referrals to care facilities, etc) the elders may need.
Sister Mikateko Baloyi from Florida Clinic mentioned their programmes as health community walkers who do community work. She requested to have a support group twice a month at Phakamisa and advised elders to take medication accordingly and the importance if to be in good health.
David Mistake, a health promoter from CoJ taught the elders about different types of food and the importance of a balanced diet, hygiene, and nutrition.
The ‘Ke Ready’ campaign team offered to rub staff with ointment, spoke about arthritis, gave painkillers, and advised the elders to visit healthcare facilities for further assistance.
Words of thanks were given by Phakamisa spokesperson Debra Mchunu.
Sipango assured the elders that they are in good hands the organisation, and they are looking forward to acting as advocates in protecting elders from the pandemic abuse in society and said they are looking forward to building better communities and safer environments to live in ‘especially for older persons’.
The NPO said that they have limited funds and would appreciate any help they may get to further their dream of serving the community with pride.
