Picture: Elderly persons educated about safety measures/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
The Roodepan police in conjunction with the Northern Cape Department of Social Development, Department of Health and Simanye Community Nutritional and Development Centre, hosted an Elderly event in Roodepan, near Kimberley on 19 October 2023. In attendance, were personnel from the SAPS, Department of Social Development, and Department of Health, Community Police Forum District Board, Women Against Crime and elderly community members.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Col Sergio Kock said: “The event commenced with an opening prayer by Pastor Lizzy Soul, followed by the welcoming address and the introduction of speakers by Blom.
“The purpose of the day was outlined by Constable Mapule de Kock and Sergeant Iris Modise, who indicated that this event was set out to make sure that the elderly persons are safe. It also makes them aware of services such as Health and Social Development that are available for them,” said Kock.
He further said, Sergeant Modise indicated the abuse of elderly people happens in their own homes. Kock added that, Modise urged the neighbours to speak up when they suspect that, an elderly person is financially abused, neglected, or harmed.
“She also pleaded with the elderly to make use of the South African Police Service when they are faced with challenges of abuse and other challenges,” he said.
Kock said the representatives from the Northern Cape Department of Health, Sara Matroos also delivered a message of support including others from the Department of Social Development, Roodepan CPF, and Women Against Crime, Olive Miller.
“The different stakeholders addressed the attendees on how abuse affects the elderly. Abuse of older people is an important public health problem. For older people, the consequences of abuse can be serious, and recovery may take longer.
“Abuse of older people can have serious consequences such as physical and mental health, financial, and social consequences, including, physical injuries, premature mortality, depression, financial devastation and placement in nursing homes,” he said.
Meanwhile, the chairperson of Simanye Community Nutritional and Development Centre (soup kitchen), Ruth Goolamhossen said: “We would like to thank all role players and attendees. The soup kitchen also provided all attendees with a warm plate of food and juice, while the SAPS band performed beautiful musical entertainment for the old folk.
The Guardian 