DEPARTMENT CONTINUES TO PROMOTE HEALTHY LIVING AMONG SENIORS

By Lawrence Mashabela.

• Golden Games Promote Active Ageing – Hundreds of older persons participated in the annual Golden Games, engaging in activities like athletics, soccer, and jukskei to stay active and healthy.
• Improved Health and Well-being – Seniors reported better physical fitness, controlled blood pressure, and improved mental health after joining Older Persons Clubs and exercise programmes.
• Encouragement to Stay Connected – The Department urges older persons to avoid isolation, adopt healthy habits, and participate in community activities to prevent age-related illnesses.

On 23 July 2025, the Gauteng Department of Social Development, in partnership with the Departments of Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Health, and the Johannesburg Older Persons Forum, hosted the annual regional Golden Games at Ruimsig Athletic Stadium near Roodepoort, Central Corridor.
The Active Ageing Games aim to empower senior citizens to remain physically active and socially engaged, enabling them to lead healthy and meaningful lives. These games also promote positive perceptions of ageing as a natural and fulfilling stage of life.
The event brought together hundreds of older persons from across the region to participate in various sporting activities, including brisk walking, soccer, athletics, ring-the-ball, dress-up, jukskei, and the rugby ball throw.
According to Lebogang Moholatse, Chairperson of the Johannesburg Older Persons Forum, the programme is designed for individuals over 60 and focuses on improving their health, encouraging active lifestyles, and reducing age-related illnesses.
She urged older persons to avoid isolation, join Older Persons Clubs, exercise regularly, maintain a balanced diet, and actively participate in community initiatives.
Expressing her gratitude for the Active Ageing Programme, 61-year-old Cynia Teka said the games have brought joy and improved her health.

“We are having fun, and for us, it’s about our health more than anything. We truly appreciate the department for making this possible; it’s helping us a lot,” said Teka.
She further encouraged older persons who remain at home to join community clubs and participate in the programme.

“We have to take care of ourselves and avoid stressful environments. Participating in active ageing programmes is good for both our bodies and our minds,” she added.
Another participant, 63-year-old Thomas Chabalala from Tembisa, expressed his excitement about returning to the games this year and encouraged his peers to adopt an active lifestyle.
“It keeps us busy, and the good thing is that most people are our peers—we understand each other. I’m no longer spending my days at home doing nothing,” Chabalala said.
Similarly, 61-year-old Onicah Radiokwane shared how the programme transformed her life. She admitted that before joining, she spent most of her time sleeping during the day. However, since joining an older persons’ club and engaging in regular exercise, her health has significantly improved.

“I am very active and fit, and I can walk long distances. My blood pressure is also well-controlled, and I feel young again,” Radiokwane said.