Social Development calls for enhanced protection for KZN's 1. 1 million elderly population
KwaZulu-Natal is home to approximately 1.1 million older persons, a demographic highlighting the pressing need for increased awareness, protection, and compassionate care for the elderly, particularly those living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
In recognition of World Alzheimer’s Day, the Department of Social Development held an interactive session in the South Coast on Sunday with older persons across the province to raise awareness about the disease, address the stigma surrounding it, and call for stronger community and policy support.
World Alzheimer’s Day, observed annually in September, aims to demystify dementia and promote early intervention.
This year’s theme, “#Ask about Dementia, #Ask about Alzheimer’s,” encourages open dialogue between families, caregivers, and healthcare providers to understand better and manage the disease.
Civil Legodu, Chief Director of Older Persons Services at the National Department of Social Development, emphasised both the scale of the elderly population and the high prevalence of elder abuse in KwaZulu-Natal.
She stressed that the session aimed to advocate for improved care and protection for older persons.
“We call upon experts, researchers, leaders, policy developers, caregivers, families, and communities to play their part in raising awareness about Alzheimer’s, a brain disease accounting for 60 to 80 percent of dementia cases, characterised by a decline in memory, reasoning, or thinking,” Legodu stated.
Psychiatric nurse practitioner Sister Wendy Robinson highlighted the importance of empathy when caring for those affected, providing a critical perspective.
“When a person with Alzheimer’s acts out or appears unkind, it is not because they are inherently mean, but because of the progression of the disease,” she explained.
“It is crucial to treat individuals living with Alzheimer’s and related conditions with respect and compassion to preserve their dignity throughout their journey.”
The event also served as a reminder of South Africa’s legislative and policy framework developed to respond to ageing-related challenges.
The Policy for Older Persons, in line with the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing (MIPAA) and the African Union Policy Framework on Ageing, supports the empowerment and protection of older persons.
The Older Persons Act 13 of 2006 and its Regulations, effective since 2010, provide a comprehensive framework to safeguard senior citizens’ rights, well-being, safety, and security.
While Alzheimer’s disease is predominantly associated with the elderly, it can begin affecting individuals as early as 30 years of age, impairing memory, thinking skills, and the ability to perform everyday tasks.
To ensure the safety of older persons, the Department of Social Development encourages communities to report instances of abuse to the Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Command Centre and The Association for the Aged (TAFTA) Elderly Abuse.
As KwaZulu-Natal confronts the challenges faced by its ageing population, the Department of Social Development’s call for compassionate care, early diagnosis, and a united community response remains vital to improving the quality of life for those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
thabo.makwakwa@inl.co.za
IOL Politics