The elderly play a very dear role in our society, and it is essential that we know exactly how to contribute to their care. Theresa du Plooy had an intimate talk with farm workers at the university’s Paradise Experimental Farm, where Health and Wellness hosted a breakfast.

She had an open dialogue with the workers in which they mentioned some of the challenges they personally face in dealing with the elderly. Many suffer from loss of memory, physical pains and the inability to work. It then becomes the responsibility of the family to care for them, especially in collectivistic cultures.

Du Plooy emphasised how important it is that we “Don’t take their dignity away,” and the need to keep them happy. Family members can do so by feeding them three meals a day, making sure that they drink water regularly and ensuring their safety in their homes and properties.

This visit was aimed at informing the workers, while in the same breath showing appreciation for the work they do.
- Hatsu Mphatsoe