​Despite not participating in health and social activities in the past two years due to the novel Covid-19 pandemic, Ekurhuleni older persons have demonstrated good strength and physique during their regional Golden Games held at Boksburg Stadium last Friday.
According to Gauteng Department of Social Development Social Work Manager in Ekurhuleni Region, Grace Moloi, healthy living and staying physically fit are important for older persons to keep their bodies strong and to restrict various illnesses such as high blood pressure and stress.

“This event we do annually in partnership with the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation to encourage good wellbeing of older persons, and to educate them that a healthy diet and exercise can prolong their lives,” Moloi said.

One golden oldie, a member of the Older Persons Forum thanked the Department for hosting these games.

She said, “We are delightful; our families and friends came to sing and cheer everyone up. We were singing, dancing, and had an opportunity to network with fellow older persons.”

The active ageing programme is part of the Older Persons Act No. 13 of 2006. The Act was put in place to ensure that it protects the rights, dignity and well-being of older persons.

Ekurhuleni Region will play hosts in the upcoming Provincial Golden Games to take place in August, this month. Amongst the activities they are rearing to overcome is rugby ball throw, athletics, pass and kick the ball, jukskei and soccer.