‘ Protect and care for old people – they are not witches’

KZN MEC for Social Development, Nonhlanhla Khoza has appealed to society to take good care of old people. “Our senior citizens play an important role in society – they help preserve the family institution and take care of young ones when their parents die, get sick or work far from home,” Khoza explained.

“As mandated by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa and the Older Persons Act 13 of 2006, older persons have an inherent right to life and dignity. They have a right to be free from abuse, neglect and exploitation.

“In the past months we have seen horrendous incidents of elder abuse such as rape, murder, bullying and taking their money without their consent.

“When you see an old person wondering around, confused and possibly even naked, don’t jump to the conclusion that they are a witch and must be punished. Often, older people who behave in this way do so because they are suffering from a disease called Alzheimer’s.

“You do not harm or kill a sick person – you help them get medical attention and medication that will improve their situation.

“Alzheimer’s is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that worsens gradually as old people advance in age. While some of the symptoms can be treated medically, the disease cannot be cured – and people suffering from it require care, support and understanding,” concluded Khoza.