When an elderly person desperately needs help to cope with daily living, we say, ‘Yes’.

 

How can we turn our back on an elder who is no longer physically capable of looking after themselves?

Even if we couldn’t afford to pay for the services of a professional carer.

Right now, Tafta is subsidising the cost of carers for many elders in this position. All of them are SASSA pensioners – which means they barely have enough money to cover daily necessities like food and electricity.

Perhaps you could help 81-year-old Mrs N – a widow living alone with no family support. She suffers from painful arthritis which makes it difficult for her to turn taps on and off, or even open a jar.

Every day – Monday to Friday – one of our carers spends an hour with her, providing soothing massage to ease the pain, and tackling household chores that are completely beyond Mrs N’s capabilities.

Or 94-year-old Mr G who is bed bound. He lives with his daughters, who are supportive, but unable to contribute financially towards the specialised nursing care he needs.

Top of the list is a daily bed bath to ensure he feels comfortable and clean. Our Tafta carers are trained for this – as well as how to clean and dress pressure sores, caused by lying in the same position for too long.

Then there’s 71-year-old Mrs A, who lives with her elderly brother. She suffered a stroke which has affected her mobility. Our carer visits daily to help with bathing, exercises and monitoring medication.

None of these elders or their families can pay the going rate for a carer. That’s why your contribution would be such a blessing.

Any amount you can contribute right now is an enormous help and makes a difference!

Please, will you open your heart to an elder in need?