Proof of Life Certification explained

In response to the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) full page ads in various newspapers regarding Proof of Life Certification through voice activation by beneficiaries, Reuven Senior Residents Association held a meeting last Friday to explain to the pensioners what SASSA is trying to communicate to the elderly.

Many of the pensioners don’t understand what SASSA is trying to communicate to them, the words they say are too difficult, they ask that SASSA send someone to come and explain to them in simple language. They referred to Home Affairs, who send some of their officials last month, to each Old Age Home and Retirement Village, to explain to them what the Smart Card is and why they are replacing the old ID books. They assured the residents that they will personally come to each Old Age Home to do the registration. Naturally, the pensioners appreciated Home Affairs consideration and understanding of the pensioner’s plight.

Remembering last year SASSA’s re-registration drive, the old people were all confused, no one could understand what the advertisement were saying, pensioners were running from pillar to post, standing in long queues for hours in the hot sun, only to be told they were in the wrong queue or that they must “come tomorrow”.

The committee wrote to SASSA last week requesting they send an official to explain to the pensioners the right thing to do to avoid losing their pensions. It was also requested SASSA send someone to do the verification “on site”, but as was expected, there was no response, not even an acknowledgement.

Regarding Voice Activation; in the case where someone suffers from bronchitis or any chest and throat illness where their voices are impaired, what should they do in such a case?

We trust that SASSA consult the pensioners first before embarking on any project where the elderly are involved, they should learn from Home Affairs how to interact with the elderly.

Jerry Theys (Secretary)

On behalf of all the pensioners

Reuven Complex Senior Residents’ Association

Cell: 084 782 6289

Tel: 011 434 5464

E-Mail: jerrytheys2@gmail.com

Social Dept.Ref.No.APP-12/11-7429