Lwandle senior citizens had the time of their lives as they were kept busy during a programme organised by their ward councillor on Friday 21 October.
The elders were encouraged to be active and to preserve their health.
They also got tips from different government departments including the Department of Social Development, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), wellness providers and the police on how to access their services.
The event was held at the Lwandle Community Hall and was welcomed by the elders as it allowed them to mingle with their peers.
Elder Nosgcina Dyani said senior citizens were not cared for. She described the day as unique to them.
“Our old citizens are being abused by their children and grandchildren at home. They keep quiet not knowing where to go and report or speak to for assistance,” she said.
“So, the day helped a lot of senior citizens to know what to do in different situations at their homes. We are happy to see we are still cared for and respected as the day showed,” said Dyani.
Another senior citizen Thobeka Matrose said the day was important as they shared valuable information.
“We are grateful to the current councillor we have because we are now able to reach out to different departments such as Social Development to iron out issues we have. SASSA officials also clarified many issues that many had and we are happy as elders of Lwandle and Nomzamo,” said Matrose.
Ward 86 councillor Xolani Diniso said the day kept the senior citizens busy and away from their “abusive grandchildren”.
“The day was very important because it was also about information sharing from the different departments. Our senior citizens were kept busy and away from being victimized at their homes by their grandchildren,” he said.
Diniso said SASSA was also there to help share as much information about their services and how to apply for those that needed to.