Seniors Programme at Ikamva Labantu

Lulama Sigansana is the current Programme Manager at Ikamva Labantu's Seniors Programme which supports vulnerable elderly throughout the Cape Metro pole. Lulama holds a Bachelor in Science Degree in Dietetics from the University of Western Cape. She started working in the communities in 1992 through the Department of Health in the area of nutrition and policy development and joined Ikamva Labantu in 2009 as the Health and Nutrition Manager.

Despite bearing the brunt of the struggle for freedom in South Africa, many older persons are still subject to widespread violation of their rights. Millions of senior citizens are living in abject poverty and experience isolation, abuse and neglect. This is exacerbated by weakened family ties, financial insecurity, limited mobility, and a lack of access to quality healthcare. Dire living conditions are the norm for many older persons who live in neighborhoods rife with crime and with limited access to basic services. Many are also unaware of their rights, and lack the resources or information to seek help when they need it. Despite this, many older persons still support large families on their pension of just R1,780 per month and are often the sole breadwinner in the household. Together with community leaders, they have a developed two community-based interventions that promote active and allow older persons to live with dignity. 

Five days a week, hundreds of senior citizens are provided transport to and from their clubs where they access a range of activities addressing health, nutrition and cognitive stimulation. Importantly, they are able to be among their peers in a social environment, away from the stress and isolation of their homes. Their senior members also have access to the emotional and physical support that heir field workers provide.

For more information contact: 

Website: https://ikamva.org.za/
Email: info@ikamva.co.za
Tel: 021 461 8338

By: Ellouise Muller

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