Pretoria – President Jacob Zuma has commended the work done to improve the Lodewyk P. Spies Home in Eersterust, Pretoria, which houses elderly people.
The Gauteng Department of Social Development allocated more than R3 million this financial year to the home. The money was used to build a new security wall, install water basins and gutters, paint the interior and exterior walls, and to spruce up the garden.
Gym equipment has also been installed as part of government's active ageing programme. R60 000 has also been set aside for two temporary safe beds.
The President visited the home on Tuesday. He initially visited it nine months ago, where he interacted with senior citizens and management. He made commitments to address issues that were raised at the centre during his visit.
“I am very pleased that we have fulfilled all our commitments in line with our mandate to promote the rights of our older persons,” he said.
The Department of Social Development is also currently in the process of strengthening the Social Assistance Act Regulations to stop illegal deductions and to bring the perpetrators, who exploit senior citizens, to book.
“We are working hard to create stronger mechanisms to prevent abuse, neglect and exploitation of our older persons.
“The Older Persons Act calls for an elder abuse reporting system and increasing public awareness and facilitating the prosecution of individuals who violate the rights of older persons,” President Zuma said.
He encouraged South Africans to report the abuse, neglect and exploitation of older persons to the Gender Based Violence Command Centre on 0800 428 428.
“This festive season, let us bring hope and love to our older persons. As we give gifts to those we love and care for, let us be always mindful of the older persons amongst us,” President Zuma said. - SAnews.gov.za
