Growing older should be a period when a persons contribution to society is acknowledged and valued. In poorer communities older persons make a valuable contribution to households as carers for children, people with disabilities and those affected and infected by HIV/AIDS.

The Department of Social Development Western Cape has embarked on a process whereby the aspect of active ageing is central to the broader Older Persons Programme. The aspect of active ageing is demonstrated through an inclusive society for all ages in which older persons participate fully and without discrimination and on the basis of equality.

The Active Ageing Programme was instituted at the beginning of 2006. The aim of the programme was to develop a self  reliant society, with respect to Older Persons in the province. Through creating an enabling environment for Older Persons, the programme seeks to deal effectively with the plight of older persons by establishing a framework aimed at the empowerment and protection of older persons and at the promotion and maintenance of their status, rights, well-being as well as safety and security.

An integrated approach with the other programmes within the Department will enhance service delivery to the older persons on dealing with issues such as HIV/AIDS, Children & Families, Victim Empowerment, Substance Abuse, Older Persons with Disabilities, Intergenerational bonding (Youth) and Capacity Building of Residential Facilities, Service Centers and Senior Clubs.

Other pertinent issues dealt with by the Act and the Active Ageing Programme includes:

• Residential Facilities / Services Centers / Senior Clubs

• Economic empowerment,

• Intergenerational linkages

• Strengthen networks and partnerships
   

My name is David John Kleinhans. Through my cycling, I Have come into contact

with different communities. Whilst I was out cycling, I pictured some difficulties in the communities. So many of us don't have time for our older people in our communities. As I see it, poverty and a lack of communication are our major problems in our communities. I aim to help our elders.

Our old age homes require more community involvement, extra individual medical Attention and help with their daily routines. They don't need to have an antisocial Lifestyle. Our elders need the attention they once gave to us when we were just Children, That's why I will be cycling from City to City, whilst competing in the Liberty Seeding events. Raising awareness for the poverty stricken, forgotten and struggling Senior citizens.

With the awareness I aim to achieve, we the communities can improve this situation. Sometimes there is not sufficient; Outings with friends or family; Pensioner's benefits; Ongoing community involvement; Extra care and patience; Necessary medical attention; More trained and caring staff; Organized group activities.

My goal is to help all those disabled, poverty stricken and struggling senior citizens* Who are unable to help themselves. We the communities must all unite and help our Senior citizens.

For more details on any of the events or for any forms of Sponsorship, please feel free to contact me.

David Kleinhans

Cell: 0714067007

www.frail.co.za