Issues affecting older people
Age-readiness vs Age-friendliness – preparing South Africa for long life
Did you know that there are now 6.6 million South Africans over the age of 60? Quietly, steadily and inevitably, our population is ageing faster than many of our systems are prepared for.
Older Persons Act Amended
On 6 November 2025, The Older Persons Amendment Bill was signed into law and gazetted as the Older Persons Amendment Act. This marks a significant step forward in how South Africa protects, empowers, and honours older persons.
Introducing TEAL – our upgraded national Elder Abuse Helpline
After 3 years in operation, TAFTA has implemented major upgrades to our national Elder Abuse Helpline, now called TEAL. These include a fresh visual identity, a dedicated WhatsApp support line, and a new email channel – all aimed at broadening victims’ access to help.
Elder Abuse – it’s not always what you think
When we hear the term elder abuse, we often imagine shocking headlines – physical violence or extreme neglect. But the reality is that abuse of older people often happens in quiet, everyday ways.
Future care of older persons
Growing demand, coupled with funding shortfalls and ineffective public services are impacting the future care of older persons.
Groundbreaking report on dementia at CHOGM 2024 in Samoa
Commonage tasked an international 6-person delegation to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Apia, Samoa from 21 to 26 October 2024.
Message from the CEO
Tafta CEO, Femada Shamam, shares thoughts about global issues in ageing, as well as our specific response to challenges facing elders.
Elder Abuse – how widespread is it and what can be done to prevent it?
In collaboration with the University of Johannesburg and a Cape Town NPO, iKamva Labantu, Tafta recently conducted research into the scourge of elder abuse
Sawubona Campaign
In a world where ageism remains a pervasive issue, Tafta’s new Sawubona Campaign aims to address age discrimination and promote the rights, protection, and dignity of older people.
Call for a UN convention on the rights of older people
Campaigners in Durban, South Africa join the global launch of a petition for a new UN convention on the rights of older people.
Embracing the International Day of Care and Support
As we stand at the crossroads of a changing world, there are certain undeniable realities that we must confront. People are living longer, and the global population of older individuals is on the rise.
World Food Day highlights food insecurity in South Africa
World Food Day highlights need for food security World Food Day, celebrated every year on 16 October, shines the spotlight of awareness on food insecurity. According to a report by The Food and Agricultural Organisation, 800 million people go to bed hungry...