Tshepo ya Sechaba, an organisation dedicated to uplifting and protecting the elderly, held an Elderly Abuse Awareness Walk on June 14.
The event aimed to educate the community about the rights of the elderly and to highlight the various forms of abuse they often face.
Cynthia Nhlapho, the founder of Tshepo ya Sechaba, expressed her satisfaction with the event’s turnout and impact.
It was a resounding success with about 200 people in attendance. The walk started at 08:00 at the local park, where participants gathered for a morning filled with singing and dancing.
“Attendees came from various areas, including Daveyton, Kwa-Thema, Delmore, Thokoza, Katlehong and Vosloorus, and held in collaboration with the Dawn Park SAPS, CPF, LifeLine, the City of Ekurhuleni SDS and EMPD
Together we marched to the police station to meet with the station commander of the Dawn Park SAPS and handed over a memorandum with our demands for better treatment when reporting crimes.
“We want a friendlier police station for the elderly. When we report cases of stolen money or physical abuse, these cases need to be taken seriously,” said Cynthia.”
Grants
Cynthia highlighted several pressing issues faced by the elderly, particularly regarding their pensions.
“One common issue is that elderly people are often unable to go to the ATM themselves, so they give their SASSA cards to their children or grandchildren.
“These family members withdraw the money but often return with only a fraction of the amount.
“Additionally, the elderly are sometimes forced to hand over their money to relatives who may use it for substances or other personal expenses.”
She added that many elderly are burdened with debts they didn’t incur themselves or are pressured to use their grants for household expenses instead of their own needs.
“This leaves them unable to enjoy their SASSA grants, which are already minimal, especially when they have to support grandchildren.”
Emotional abuse is another severe issue.
“The way some children or grandchildren speak to the elderly, using insulting and hurtful language, leaves them emotionally and psychologically damaged.
“This can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems. Physical abuse is also a significant concern, but many elderly people are too scared to report it,” said Cynthia.
To address these issues, she emphasised the importance of a healthy lifestyle for the elderly.
“They should eat healthily, exercise and socialise with their peers to reduce stress and depression. They need love, care and support while they are alive.”
Anyone who wants to support Tshepo ya Sechaba can contact Cynthia on 082 427 3864.
