Elder Abuse: uThukela and UGU have highest cases in KZN

According to the Department of Social Development (DSD), Kwazulu-Natal has an alarming rate of elder abuse documented across the province’s care facilities.

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A press release by the MEC Mrs Nonhlanhla Khoza has brought abuse of the elderly in provincial care facilities into the spotlight. More than 2, 800 individuals receive care from the state in registered facilities, though a high rate of abuse has been recorded.

Here’s more about the state of elderly abuse, and where to report it.

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ELDER ABUSE IN KZN

According to the Kwazulu-Natal DSD, the department is responsible for “residential care services” to 2, 846 elder persons. There are 44 facilities officially registered with the Department of Social Development, who receive funding and aid from government.

The same press release also reveals statistics about elder abuse. A total of 352 people are said to have experienced a form of abuse at Kwazulu-Natal facilities.

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uThukela has the highest number of instances, followed by UGU and Zululand. eThekwini South and North are also put on the list of older persons abuse hotspots for Kwazulu-Natal.

The September event was part of a governmental focus on Alheimer’s disease and dementia, which happens during World Alzheimer’s Month.

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Mrs Khoza called for greater compassion to the elderly, and to those affected by Alzheimer’s disease.

WHAT IS ELDER ABUSE?

Elder abuse is the emotional or physical abuse of older persons.

According to the National Institute of Health (NIA), elder abuse can include:

• Tying them down
• Hitting or slapping them
• Neglect

Elder abuse can also include verbal or financial abuse, such as witholding their social grant or documents.

The Western Cape Government says that elder abuse can happen at home, or in designated facilities meant to take care of older and vulnerable persons.

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Suspected elder abuse should be reported to the Department of Social Development. It is also a crime, which can further be reported to the South African Police Services (SAPS).

REPORTING ABUSE OF OLDER PERSONS

If you suspect the abuse of an older or vulnerable person, it is your right to speak up.

Unregistered care facilities and abuse should be reported to the Department of Social Development (DSD) using the details below:

• +27 12 312 7727
• customercare@dsd.gov.za

A report can also be made to SAPS by calling 10111 and asking for your nearest police station.