For the 70 elderly men and women of Jordan House Old Age Home, most of whom are in frail care, rest has become a struggle.
The beds they sleep on each night are worn out, with staff resorting to makeshift fixes. According to social worker assistant Charlene Riley-Mohlala, old blankets, wooden planks, and even a stack of books have been stuffed under sagging mattresses in a desperate effort to keep them usable.
“We are at a point where they are just failing to hold, even with all our improvising,” she said.
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She added that the beds in their current state caused a series of problems. “It causes severe back problems on top of already suffered arthritis, t issues, lack of sleep, and body aches, resulting in us giving pain medication more than the norm.”
Mohlala said that they had approached various corporations for donations, but to no avail. “Most industries only put major focus and emphasis on education, youth and skills development, leaving our elders quite destitute and fragile.”
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Currently, the home has the capacity for 85 residents, but due to a lack of resources, they are unable to reach full capacity. “With 42 full-time staff and six dedicated volunteers, care is provided, with a doctor visiting weekly for patient consultations.”
For her, it is more than just replacing the beds; it is about reinstating the value of the elderly.
“Our grannies and grandpas still matter, their lives mean so much. Some of them already feel like the world has moved on without them; they are just waiting to leave this world behind. They deserved to be loved, respected, and comfortable.”
If you can assist, please Charlene Riley-Mohlala at 083 536 6629.
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