Western Cape's commitment to older persons: increased funding and community support

October 1 is celebrated as International Day of Older Persons and the Department of Social Development (DSD) has highlighted that it has increased funding from R231 million in 2024/2025 to R254 million in 2025/2026.

DSD facilitates 112 residential facilities managed by NGOs including 151 community-based service centres.

DSD said as it heads into Social Development Month in October, they wished to highlight the work of the Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD) to assist older persons.

It said this year’s theme is “Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being and Our Rights”, which highlights the transformative role older persons play in building resilient and equitable societies.

“The department has an Older Persons programme for which it has increased funding from R231 million in 2024/2025 to R254 million in 2025/2026,” said DSD.

 "DSD funds 112 residential facilities managed by NGOs, as well as 25 independent and assisted living facilities. It also funds 151 community-based service centres that offer recreational activities, and meals to older persons in numerous communities.

“The department also has a statutory obligation to intervene when it receives reports of elder abuse.”

Western Cape Minister of Social Development Jaco Londt said: “Please report instances of abuse to your nearest South African Police Service station or local DSD office. Thank you to the many incredible organisations that support the department in caring for and protecting older persons. 

“You can also support the work of NGOs and NPOs in the older persons sector, whether through donations in kind by supporting the Cape Care Fund or by volunteering your time. Many of these organisations appreciate members of the public who can come in and spend time with the senior residents.”

 "I wish to urge residents to protect the dignity of older persons by honouring their rights and prioritising their wellbeing. They have a lifetime of experience, and nurturing intergenerational relationships within our homes and communities remains integral to strengthening the fabric of our society.”

In a separate bid to celebrate and recognise the elderly,  the organisation, Ikamva Labantu gathered at the Enkululekweni Wellness Centre in Khayelitsha together with community members including Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis, who announced a R500 000 donation from the City of Cape Town to their older persons programme. 

The event featured a traditional praise singer, a performance by the Vuyani Choir, and a panel discussion with the community around issues faced by elders.  

Hill-Lewis said : “Older people, and particularly those living in our poorer communities and townships, carry an incredible load when it comes to supporting families and keeping communities strong and united. And yet their plight and their needs are often overlooked. We are so grateful for the immense contribution of Ikamva Labantu towards the health, welfare and social inclusion of our townships’ older people, and we are proud to support them in this very important work.” 

Ikamva Labantu said the world’s population ages rapidly, with one in six people set to be over 60 by 2030.

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