OLDER PERSONS URGED TO LEAD AND INSPIRE THE NEXT GENERATION

By Evans Molimi

• “Ageing is not about stepping aside, but about stepping forward to share knowledge and values with younger generations,” says 65-year-old Ckerl Peterson.
• The Department of Social Development (DSD) continues to use Human Rights Month engagements to raise awareness about the rights, dignity and protection of older persons.
• Senior citizens are speaking out against abuse, discrimination and harmful practices such as witchcraft accusations that threaten their safety and well-being.

At age 65, Ckerl Peterson serves as an advocate for intergenerational optimism. He asserts that older individuals continue to possess significant capacity to positively influence the development of their communities, rather than withdrawing from active engagement.

Peterson was speaking during an Older Persons Awareness engagement held on 11 March 2026 in Mitchell’s Plain, Western Cape, led by the Deputy Minister of Social Development, Mr Ganief Hendricks. The engagement formed part of activities marking Human Rights Month, with a focus on promoting the rights, dignity and protection of older persons.

Peterson emphasised that the wisdom and life experience of senior citizens can help guide young people away from social challenges such as substance abuse.
“Young people can learn a lot from our life experiences,” he said. “As older persons, we have a responsibility to guide them and help them make better choices.”
He said it was encouraging to see older people coming together to openly discuss their roles in communities, not only as recipients of social grants but also as mentors who continue to influence and inspire younger generations.

“Older persons are a source of wisdom and inspiration. We deserve to be treated with dignity and respect because our contribution goes beyond our families. We care about the well-being of the entire community,” he said.

For Peterson, ageing is not about stepping aside, but about stepping forward to share knowledge and values with younger generations.
“It is a big responsibility,” he explained. “We want to make sure our children and grandchildren grow up with the right guidance. Many young people face serious challenges today, including alcohol and drug abuse. Our role is to guide them and encourage them to focus on education and making responsible life choices.”

He also encouraged young people to take their time when making important life decisions, warning against the pressures that often lead to risky behaviour at an early age.
“We share words of wisdom with young people who may feel tempted to start drinking early or rush into relationships. We encourage them to wait for the right time and take responsibility for their lives so they can build a better future,” he said.
While older persons continue to play a positive role in society, Peterson acknowledged that many still face serious challenges, including physical, financial and emotional abuse.
In some communities, older persons are also falsely accused of witchcraft, which can lead to discrimination and violence.

Despite these challenges, Peterson said senior citizens remain determined to stand up for their rights and dignity.

“Older persons deserve to live without fear. We must be treated with the same respect and dignity as any other citizen,” he said.

He added that the rights of older persons are protected in South Africa’s Constitution and reinforced through the Older Persons Act, which promotes their safety, well-being and participation in society.
“Like everyone else, older persons deserve protection and respect. Our rights must be upheld, and our voices must continue to be heard,” Peterson concluded.