There is an Act to protect the rights of South Africa’s senior citizens, but most of them do not know of its existence. The National Department of Social Development has now set aside R77 million to effectively implement the Older People's Act number 13 of 2006.
The campaign to educate the public about this Act has started in the Alfred Nzo District municipality at Mt. Frere in the Eastern Cape.
An elderly person is raped, abused or killed every 24 hours in South Africa. Often these incidents go unreported as many stay far from police stations.
The Act will ensure that elderly people have a forum to voice their concerns. There will be no more traveling long distances to urban areas for Old Age homes.
In each district municipality an old age home will be built. Associations will also be formed where the aged will be able to dance and enjoy their hobbies.
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