Excitement was evident on the faces of senior citizens during the International Day of Older Persons event held at the Enkululekweni Wellness Centre in Khayelitsha on Thursday, 1 October.

The event was organised by Ikamva Labantu, where elders were entertained by choral and traditional music.

Celebrating older people and their rights

Ikamva Labantu’s programme manager for older persons, Lulama Sigasana, said senior citizens are among the most vulnerable people in the community and the event was held as part of their awareness campaign to highlight issues affecting older people.

“This day means a lot to us. It is a fun and educational day. We are singing and educating them about their rights at the same time. Many senior citizens are abused by their family members in many ways. They are abused emotionally, financially and physically. But as Ikamva Labantu, we are here for them,” said Sigasana.

According to Sigasana, the centre is a safe space where older people can speak freely and share their experiences.

“We have various programmes like beading, gardening and exercising. We also have social workers who conduct health screenings. We have senior clubs. There is a lot that is happening to keep them busy,” she said.

Sigasana said Ikamva Labantu has 16 senior clubs across the metro.

She emphasised the need for society to take care of and respect senior citizens, describing them as a source of wisdom.

A place to connect and belong

Thandeka Vumindaba, one of the attendees, described the centre as a home. She said the centre promotes unity and Ubuntu.

“As older people, we need to love each other and unite. Ikamva Labantu is there for us. This is our home. We do everything together. We are like a family here,” said Vumindaba.

Ikamva Labantu founder Helen Lieberman said she was grateful to see older people happy and enjoying themselves.

She said the aim was to help people maintain a sense of purpose. However, she said there was more needed to be done to support and protect senior citizens in the country.

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