The rights, dignity, and well-being of older persons will come to the fore as Social Development Minister Dina Pule leads the Active Ageing Programme at Dr Petrus Rantlai Molemela Stadium in Bloemfontein, Free State, today.
Guided by the Older Persons Act 13 of 2006, the National Development Plan, the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing and the United Nations Decade of Healthy Ageing, the programme seeks to promote healthy ageing, positive lifestyles, social cohesion and intergenerational solidarity.
The two-day programme, taking place from 30 to 31 October 2026, will be held under the theme: “Golden Years: See Our Value; Golden Opportunities: Promote Our Rights.”
It also aims to prevent social isolation and loneliness, strengthen community-based care and support services, and empower older persons to participate actively in society while ensuring access to their rights, dignity and inclusion.
As part of efforts to amplify the voices of older persons and promote their participation in decision-making processes, the programme will feature interactive dialogues where senior citizens will have an opportunity to share their experiences and raise issues affecting their daily lives.
According to the Department of Social Development (DSD), older persons face various socio-economic challenges, with some sharing their old age grant income with their families while caring for orphaned and vulnerable grandchildren, often amid high unemployment and limited household resources.
They are also vulnerable to various forms of abuse, including physical and emotional abuse, gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), while many face health challenges associated with chronic and age-related conditions.
“The programme seeks to address these challenges by promoting the rights, well-being and social inclusion of older persons, while encouraging communities to recognise their value and support their meaningful participation in society,” the department said.
The programme will also feature the Golden Games, which include choral music, soccer, athletics and various indigenous games.
These activities are aimed at promoting physical health, social interaction, active participation and a sense of belonging among older persons.
The initiative is supported by partnerships between the DSD and various government departments and stakeholders, including the departments responsible for health, sport, arts and culture, the Office of the Premier and municipalities.
Other partners include the South African Local Government Association, the South African Older Persons Forum, non-profit organisations, traditional leaders, faith-based organisations and the private sector.
The Active Ageing Programme also forms part of South Africa’s commitment to the 2002 Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing, which identifies three priority areas: older persons and development; advancing health and well-being into old age; and ensuring enabling and supportive environments.
The plan promotes a developmental approach to ageing, with emphasis on how societies perceive, engage with and care for older persons, while ensuring that they enjoy their full human rights. – SAnews.gov.za
Source: Original report at SAnews.gov.za.
