Older persons from Mitchells Plain gathered on the 11 March 2026 at Lentegeur Hospital in Cape Town.
The dialogue provided a platform for older persons to speak openly about issues affecting their daily lives, while also strengthening awareness of their rights and the services available to protect them.
Older persons remain central to the fabric of South African communities. Many serve as caregivers within families, mentor younger generations, and play an active role in community development. They are often relied upon to provide stability within households, including caring for grandchildren.
Despite their valuable contributions, older persons remain among the most vulnerable members of society, with many facing risks such as abuse, neglect and social isolation.
The Department of Social Development is the custodian of the Older Persons Act, legislation that seeks to promote and protect the rights and dignity of older persons. The Act ensures that older persons can express their views freely and participate meaningfully in society without fear of discrimination, neglect, or oppression.
Through initiatives such as the National Active Ageing Programme, the department continues to promote healthy, active and socially connected lives for older persons.
The programme adopts a multi-sectoral approach that combines dialogue, wellness activities and sporting engagements, enabling senior citizens to share experiences, strengthen social connections, and maintain their physical and mental well-being.
The Mitchells Plain dialogue also formed part of activities marking Human Rights Month, observed annually in March under the theme “Bill of Rights at 30: Making Human Dignity Real.”
Through engagements such as this dialogue, government is strengthening awareness of the rights of older persons while reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that their dignity, voices and contributions continue to be recognised and protected in South African society.
