This year, the Go Turquoise for the Elderly month-long South African initiative runs until Monday, 15 June. It aims to raise awareness about the challenges, well-being, and rights of senior citizens, culminating in World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on 15 June.

The campaign raises funds, promotes the well-being of older persons, and highlights the risks of abuse, neglect, and crime faced by many elderly South Africans, particularly those ageing outside formal care facilities.

Elder abuse is often a hidden problem in communities worldwide. Older persons are often dependent on others for physical care, emotional support, or financial management, making them more vulnerable to abuse.

How to recognise elder abuse:

• Interaction with caregivers: The elderly person appears fearful or withdrawn in the presence of a specific person or the caregiver.
• Behavioural changes: Withdrawal, anxiety, fearful behaviour, depression, or sudden personality changes.
• Living conditions: Poor hygiene, dirty clothing, lack of food, or unsafe living conditions.
• Physical signs: Unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, broken bones, or frequent injuries.
• Financial signs: Unexpected changes in bank accounts, unpaid bills, or missing belongings.

“Elder abuse is often hidden from public view, but its impact on older persons can be devastating,” said Free State Engo marketing and fundraising director Alda Fourie. “By raising awareness, we can help communities recognise the warning signs and ensure that vulnerable seniors receive the protection and support they deserve.

“The campaign is about more than awareness; it is a call to action for all South Africans to stand up against abuse, neglect, exploitation, and crime targeting older persons.

“It is therefore essential that communities remain vigilant and report any concerns to the appropriate authorities.”

Engo Free State cares for more than 2,800 elderly residents across its facilities, and through this campaign the organisation hopes to promote dignity, well-being, and respect for older persons while encouraging meaningful conversations about their safety and quality of life.

Types of elder abuse:

• Emotional or psychological abuse: This type of abuse includes threats, verbal insults, humiliation, intimidation, or isolating elderly persons from family and friends.
• Sexual abuse: Although less frequently discussed, sexual abuse also occurs among elderly persons.
• Neglect: Neglect occurs when a caregiver fails to provide basic needs such as food, water, hygiene, medical care, medication, or safe housing.
• Physical abuse: This includes any form of physical violence, such as hitting, pushing, shaking, burning, or the incorrect use of medication.
• Financial abuse: This occurs when someone illegally or without permission uses an elderly person’s money, property, or assets.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame sm

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