WORLD ELDER ABUSE AWARENESS DAY REINFORCESCOMMITMENT TO PROTECTING OLDER PERSONS

By Sipho Ncube

• Gauteng Department of Social Development led the commemoration of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day under the theme “Honouring Our Elders, Building a Compassionate Society.”
• Stakeholders called for stronger protection of older persons against abuse, neglect, exploitation and discrimination.
• Older persons received information on support services, including SAPS protection measures, SASSA’s Grant-in-Aid benefit and active ageing programmes.

The Gauteng Department of Social Development (GDSD) joined communities around the world in commemorating World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) at the OR Tambo Cultural Precinct in Wattville, Ekurhuleni, on 15 June 2026.

Observed annually on 15 June, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day raises awareness about the abuse, neglect, exploitation and discrimination faced by older persons, while promoting their rights, dignity and well-being.

This year’s commemoration was held under the theme, “Honouring Our Elders, Building a Compassionate Society.”

The programme brought together government departments, civil society organisations, community stakeholders and older persons to discuss issues affecting senior citizens and strengthen efforts to protect and empower them.

Addressing attendees, the Gauteng Department of Social Development’s Director for Older Persons Services, Ms Pearl Moabelo, emphasised the importance of creating safe and supportive environments for older persons.

“Our senior citizens deserve to live free from violence, abuse, neglect and discrimination. They are the custodians of our wisdom, culture and values. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that they are respected, protected and able to enjoy a dignified quality of life,” said Moabelo.

Representing the Gauteng Office of the Premier, Ms Gugulethu Dlamini highlighted the role of the Older Persons Desk, which was established in 2016 under the leadership of former Gauteng Premier, David Makhura.

“The desk was created to provide older persons with a dedicated platform where they can raise concerns, access support and be treated with the dignity and respect they deserve,” she said.

South African Police Service (SAPS) Lieutenant Colonel Skhosana encouraged older persons to report incidents of abuse and assured them that measures are in place to improve access to services.
“Older persons do not have to stand in queues at SAPS client service centres. We encourage them to report any form of abuse and to seek assistance whenever they need protection,” he said.

Ms Khensani Mthembu from the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) provided information on the Grant-in-Aid benefit, explaining that it is intended for older persons who require regular care while continuing to live in their own homes.

“The Grant-in-Aid is an additional benefit for frail beneficiaries who are not residing in care facilities. Recipients may use the grant in a manner that best supports their personal care needs,” she explained.

Ms Namawethu Bokveld from Age-in-Action encouraged older persons to participate in local luncheon clubs, describing them as valuable spaces that promote active ageing, social inclusion and empowerment.

The commemoration reaffirmed the importance of collective action in safeguarding the rights and dignity of older persons and ensuring that they remain active, respected and valued members of society.