Issy Geshen Lamont Home for the Aged is at the forefront and centre in a joint commitment with other partners in elderly care to raise awareness on elder abuse in communities.
To mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on Tuesday 15 June, elders and staff from the home hosted an awareness walk in Lamontville, Durban, in commemorating of the event.
The awareness walk, attended by a small number of elders, demonstrated solidarity by participants with victims of elder abuse. The aim is to bring attention to the various forms of elder abuse.
“Elder abuse and mental health, including depression and anxiety, are interlinked, with elder abuse having devastating psychological effects on the elderly. This can lead to social isolation, a significant risk factor for further abuse,” said Sifiso Ngidi, Administrator-Issy Geshen Lamont Home for the Aged.
Elder abuse can take many forms including financial, psychological, physical, social or sexual and can include mistreatment or neglect. Some warning signs of elder abuse may include fear, anxiety, injuries and absence of personal care.
Mr. Ngidi said, “Like other forms of family violence, elder abuse often occurs behind closed doors, and very few cases of elder abuse are generally reported to authorities. We have shown our determination to report elder abuse. It is heartbreaking that when many older people reach their golden years, some are instead faced with cruelty and unkindness rather than love and respect.”
Ngidi added, “Awareness days like World Elder Abuse Awareness Day help bring this issue out into the open so we can do something about it. There are many ways we can stop elder abuse, by keeping in touch with our older family members and friends, asking if they are okay or reporting any case of elder abuse to the authorities.
The Elder Abuse Helpline provides information, support and referrals for victims, their families, and friends. Anyone with concerns about elder abuse can contact the helpline on 0800 333 231 or visit www.sahrc.org .za or Email: info@sahrc.org.zafor more information on the rights of Older Persons.
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