Tafta calls on Durban to ‘turn teal’ to spotlight elder abuse

Tumi Pakkies/Independent Newspapers Tafta CEO and chair of the Commonwealth Association for Ageing (CommonAge), Femada Shamam.

DURBAN residents have been urged to wear teal on Sunday as part of a citywide campaign to raise awareness of elder abuse and encourage greater support for older people facing neglect, exploitation and violence.

The call comes from The Association for the Aged (Tafta) ahead of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), observed annually on June 15.

The organisation is encouraging residents, businesses, schools and community groups to participate in its "Turn Durban Teal" campaign, aimed at highlighting the challenges faced by older persons and promoting practical measures to prevent abuse.

This year's international theme, "Beyond Awareness: Making Elder Abuse Prevention Work", focuses on strengthening support systems and improving access to services for older people.