Community unites to raise awareness on elder abuse
Police appeal to the youth to protect elderly people.
SCORES of concerned community members gathered at the Merebank Regional Community Hall in a concerted effort to mark Elderly Awareness Day.
Also read: Elderly people empowered by anti-abuse campaign
The event, designed to shed light on the prevalent issue of elder abuse, sought to empower the aged with the knowledge of their rights and how to report instances of abuse.
Speakers at the programme emphasised the vital importance of caring for the elderly, particularly those grappling with conditions like dementia. They called upon the youth to step up and provide support and compassion to the elderly population.
Captain Mbuso Gumede of the Wentworth Police Station underscored the pivotal role law enforcement plays in safeguarding the rights of the elderly. He expressed concern over the alarming frequency of abuse incidents targeting senior citizens afflicted with dementia.
“An elderly person suffering from dementia may inadvertently wander the streets, sometimes in the dead of night, and, unfortunately, becomes a target of community aggression,” said Gumede.
“We implore the community to shield the elderly and promptly report any instances of abuse to the appropriate authorities. At Wentworth Police Station, we are committed to ensuring that the rights of the elderly are upheld and any reports of crime from this vulnerable demographic receive the attention and care they rightfully deserve,” he added.
Also read: Elderly educated on how to protect themselves
The event served as a poignant reminder of the collective responsibility to protect and respect the elderly members of society, fostering an environment of dignity, care and support for those who have contributed significantly to our communities. Through education, awareness and active community engagement, strides can be made in combating the scourge of elder abuse and ensuring the well-being of our ageing population.
The South African Older Persons Act 13 of 2006 refers to elder abuse as ‘a single or repeated act or lack of appropriate action that causes harm or distress to an older person occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust’.
The World Elder Abuse Awareness Day was launched on June 15, 2006, by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organisation.
The day seeks to provide an opportunity for communities around the world to promote a better understanding of the abuse and neglect of older persons by raising awareness of the cultural, social, economic and demographic processes affecting elder abuse and neglect.
To report elder abuse, call:
Tafta helpline toll-free number 0800 10 111 0.
Wentworth Police Station 031 451 6207.
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