South Africa
In South Africa, HelpAge works through our partner Muthande Society for the Aged (MUSA) to:
- train traditional health practitioners about the prevention and transmission of HIV and safe practices, as they are often the first port of call for older people seeking medical advice
- provide support for older people living with or caring for relatives who have HIV or AIDS. Trained caregivers visit older people to offer services such as counselling, nursing, caring and guidance on healthy eating and living.
- help older people access legal help or grants and benefits to which they are entitled.
The difference we made in 2009-10
- We trained 225 traditional health practitioners.
- We translated the traditional health practitioners act from English to the local language, IsiZulu, so it would be of greater benefit to the local people who will use it.
- We supported the construction of a recreational hall for events such as meetings and celebrations. The centre is used by older people for adult education, to receive meals and is used to keep track of older people's issues in the area.
- We distributed blankets and wheelchairs to older people and people with disabilities.
What next?
- We will train more traditional health practitioners in HIV and AIDS care and prevention.
- We will advise older people on how to manage cash grants and save money.
- We will help older people communicate better with their grandchildren on issues related to HIV transmission and prevention.
Our partners
Age In Action, Muthande Society for the Aged