This was said at the Roman Catholic Church in Rivonia by Angie Makwetla, a commissioner of the South African Human Rights Commission, who lamented society’s exclusion of the elderly, and their knowledge and wisdom when trying to solve challenges the nation faces.

Makwetla told the elderly from Joseph Gerard Foundation Home of Peace in Alex, “We exclude them to our peril, hence the ongoing turmoil and continuing struggle to achieve social cohesion, peace and prosperity.”

Makwetla urged society and the families of the elderly, who gathered for the occasion, to use the season as a time to recognise and tap into the wealth of knowledge. “Many of them live longer due to improved living conditions and would go on longer if supported well by their families,” said Makwetla.

She said the commission wants the elderly to pass on their values and wants to make sure that the elderly are available to society by protecting them and promoting their rights, which are enshrined in the Constitution.

The Constitution guarantees the elderly the rights to:
Life and dignity
Not to be discriminated against
Security
Not to be exploited
Access to health care, sufficient food, water, social security and help to support themselves
Basic education including adult basic education.
Makwetla decried the victimisation of the elderly through gender-based discrimination, and the abuse and threats of economic isolation when they have no prospect for employment. “A recent investigation revealed they were mostly abused by family members and the community, who should be their primary protectors. They are also denied safety and security in care facilities [and] some of them die from fires,” she said.

Source: Alexnews