Over 3 000 people assisted through Tafta’s Toll-Free National Elder Abuse Helpline

Since the launch of our toll-free elder abuse helpline, we’ve received 3 184 calls, mostly from older women. Conversely, the majority of abusers were male.

As South Africa marks 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, Tafta is concerned about the gender bias in elder abuse. In one case, a 68-year old woman was physically assaulted by her step-son, and her injuries required medical attention.

Thanks to the toll-free helpline, the elder was able to access the help she needed. We reported the case to the local Department of Social Development, and their Social Workers helped the woman move out of the house and access Legal Aid to expedite a protection order against the step-son.

Physical abuse

Physical harm is just one aspect of elder abuse. Calls to the helpline reveal that elders also experience financial, emotional, sexual and systemic abuse, as well as neglect. Nearly half of all cases reported involved more than one type of abuse.

Owing to high levels of poverty and unemployment in many communities, families often depend on older relatives’ pensions for survival. 84-year old Mrs R was living with her daughter and her two grown up grandchildren when she became severely ill with diarrhoea and vomiting. But her daughter refused to take Mrs R to the hospital for treatment in case it affected her access to the pension money.

Following a tip off from the neighbours, our Helpline Supervisor contacted the SAPS and DSD and Mrs R was taken to a place of safety, where she got the treatment she needed.

Verbal abuse

When 81 year old Mrs M’s health declined, she moved out of her retirement home and went to live with her daughter, son-in-law and grandchild. She thought they would take care of her, but instead they made her life a misery.

She was not able to speak freely or do anything without permission. They were verbally abusive and neglected her. She didn’t feel safe or wanted, and described the living arrangements as ‘toxic’.

Following investigations by our Social Worker, Mrs. M was placed in the semi-independent facility at John Conradie House, where she is being monitored and cared for properly.

Dementia

Miss W is 75 years old and has no children of her own. For over 40 years she lived in a flat in central Durban with her friend. When the friend passed away, her son and his girlfriend moved in.

Although they tried their best to provide care and support, Miss W developed Dementia and became difficult and aggressive when they tried to help her wash and dress.

A concerned neighbour, shocked at her disheveled and dirty appearance, called our helpline to report neglect and abuse.

Following investigations, our Social Worker established the facts, and discussed long-term care options with the younger couple. Thanks to our intervention, Miss W was successfully placed in the frail care section at John Dunn House, where she is receiving the care she needs.

The above cases are described according to actual reports received by the Helpline. Names have been withheld to protect identities. Tafta’s Helpline (0800 10 11 10) is a safe, anonymous and accessible resource to address instances of elder abuse across South Africa.