MPUMALANGA Social Development MEC Lindiwe Ntshalintshali has urged gogos and mkhulus to exercise, saying keeping their bodies active will keep them healthy.
Ntshalintshali was speaking during a sports day for the elderly at Solomon Mahlangu Stadium in KwaMhlanga on Thursday, 13 July. She said the elderly locked themselves in their houses instead of going out and flexing their muscles. She said they must be involved in sports.
"Allow old people to eat and take their medication on time. We must also encourage them to exercise in order to fight chronic illnesses. If mothers leave their kids with gogos, they will not be able to go out and exercise. Being old doesn't mean that the mind doesn't work.
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"There are so many problems at home that make them suffer from stress. Grandkids abuse them by taking their social grant money to buy alcohol. They must be protected at all costs because they are our living ancestors," she said.
Ntshalintshali said there's a disease called dementia and the elderly must always visit the clinic to get advice on how to deal with it.
"When people grow up, there are changes and we mustn't abandon them, but must help them," she said.
Gogos and mkhulus had a great day at the event and told the SunTeam they still feel strong.
Madala Joseph Msiza (69) said he loves exercising.
"Every morning I go out to jog and my body is still going strong. My diabetes is very low, but I won't stop taking my medication. I feel great today," he said.
Gogo Tryphina Selala (66) said exercising with other gogos in her area has made her feel young.
"I feel sweet 16 because I exercise everyday. I'm in good shape and running isn't a problem. The day is great for all of us," she said.
