Kroonstad – The Portfolio Committee on Social Development emphasized society’s role in reporting maltreatment and abuse of older persons at the first of three public hearings on the Older Persons Amendment Bill [11-2022]. The hearing, which took place at the Allan Rautenbach Hall in Kroonstad, is part of a national initiative to gather public opinion on the Bill, as mandated by Section 59 (1) of the Constitution.
According to Parliament of South Africa, there was a general consensus that older persons often suffer abuse in silence, and the Bill should introduce mechanisms to improve reporting. The elderly participants overwhelmingly supported the Bill, seeing it as essential for ensuring their protection, respect, and the promotion of their rights.
Despite the support, some concerns were raised regarding the feasibility of clause 25A of the Bill, which proposes a process for the temporary safe care removal of older persons. The clause was questioned in light of current funding pressures and the ability of care homes to provide adequate care, even temporarily.
Caregivers also expressed support for the Bill, particularly clause 9, which mandates prescribed training to ensure high-quality care. However, concerns were raised about the prevalent issue of loan sharks confiscating South African Social Security Agency cards and identity documents from the elderly. This practice reportedly creates difficulties for families in preparing for funerals when an elderly person passes away. The committee advised against approaching loan sharks for loans due to the severe consequences.
Additionally, the elderly of the Fezile Dabi District Municipality requested the local government to allocate land for establishing care homes and recreation facilities for senior citizens.
The committee valued the input received and assured that these perspectives would be considered during the Bill’s deliberation. The Older Persons Amendment Bill aims to enhance the protection and care of South Africa’s senior citizens, addressing issues such as abuse, harmful traditional practices, including witchcraft accusations, and the transfer of inter-generational knowledge. It also includes provisions for the removal of older individuals to temporary safe care without requiring a court order.
The second leg of the hearings is scheduled to take place in Welkom, with the committee inviting individuals and organizations to participate and share their views.