Kwa-Thema – The International Ambassadors of Peace Network Gauteng hosted 300 pensioners at the Kwa-Thema Society for the Care of the Aged in celebration of Older Person’s Day, on Tuesday.
“The event aimed to value and treat people well to maintain peace in our country,” explained Joshua Twala, the organisation’s director.
Social activist Paddy Nhlapo, from SA Partners, has dedicated his life to eradicating stigma and humanising HIV.
He is part of a ground-breaking project of SA Partners aimed at strengthening, prevention, treatment, and psychosocial support needs of people living with HIV aged 50+ to reduce morbidity and mortality.
“The community research project revealed various challenges people are facing. Among the 422 focus group participants, approximately 75% were HIV positive, and 73.1% were on various chronic medications.
“Common comorbidities include hypertension and diabetes,” he said.
Nhlapo noted efforts to decrease the infection rate of HIV will be fruitless if we ignore those over 50.
“People over 50 still engage in sexual activity. And sometimes those activities are with younger adults in their 20s,” he explained.
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He added older people with HIV often face increased risks of age-related comorbidities, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cognitive impairment, along with the complexities of managing multiple medications.
Mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, can also be more prevalent because of psychosocial stressors and potential stigma.
Adding to the health conversation, Dr Mathias Langa challenged the seniors to do their best to avoid lifestyle diseases.
“In many cases, you can do something now to prevent an illness later. As we often say, you can eat and drink everything in moderation.
“By the time the doctor tells you to stop consuming something completely, it could mean you had too much of it for a long time,” he explained.
Langa also noted a common physical challenge faced by pensioners is arthritis.
“There are many kinds of arthritis. What is important to note is when you experience any pain, swelling or lethargy in the joints for more than seven days, seek medical attention,” he said.
Langa also encouraged men to have their prostate examined at least once every year. Inkosi Vusumuzi Mathe challenged the elders to make their concerns known.
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“There is no point in us being in this community and failing to represent you in government. Please use me. I am honoured to serve you.
“It is a blessing to have elders with us,” he added.
A pensioner, Sipho Nzoyi, said men should take full advantage of such events.
“There are a few men at most of these events. And I know men could benefit from being here. Please come, we are ready to receive you,” he said.
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