College of Human Sciences
Unisa @ 150: Making a difference in the lives of our cherished elders
The 18th of July in South Africa is recognised as Nelson Mandela International Day, an annual global celebration. In celebrating Mandela Day, members of the Unisa Care for Older Persons Project from the Department of Health Studies engaged on a site visit to promote health education among the resident elders, their caregivers and the facility manager at the A re Aganeng Old Age Home in Makapanstad Village, Northwest Province.
Standing (from left): Oupa Hlabye, Lloyd Modjadji, Jarita Mabula (Facility Manager), Sister Rebecca Mawasha, Prof Debbie Habedi, Venda Modise (Social Worker) and Dr Robert Netangaheni.
Kneeling (from left): Seipati Molatedi, Dipuo Mothoa and Desia Pitsoane
This year the theme is "The Legacy Lives on Through You: Climate, Food, and Solidarity". The theme for 2023 emphasises the relevance of Mandela's legacy in tackling contemporary issues: "It is in your hands". An important consideration is Unisa’s vision as the African university shaping futures in the service of humanity. The project team comprises three members: Prof Debbie Habedi, Dr Thinavhuyo Netangaheni and Lloyd Modjadji from Unisa Development and Special Projects.
Prof Debbie Habedi presenting health education to the elders, caregivers and facility manager
Habedi explained that the team focused on providing health education to make a difference in the lives of the elders, their caregivers and the facility manager. As part of her health education session, she explained that hypertension (high blood pressure) occurs when the pressure in your blood vessels is too high (140/90 mmHg or higher). She added that hypertension is common and can be serious if not treated. In addition, she emphasised that people with high blood pressure may not feel symptoms. "We encourage our elderly people to regularly have their blood pressure checked at the nearest clinic or hospital," she said.
Modjadji engaged with the facility manager on how best they can be assisted with renovations of the existing building, taking into consideration the elders’ daily basic needs. A follow-up visit will be planned to view the progress made by the facility manager.
The health education session further covered aspects such as factors that increase the risk of having high blood pressure, signs and symptoms, and lifestyle changes/modifications.
The team plans to visit the elderly again soon to raise awareness on chronic illnesses such as diabetes and arthritis.
#Unisa150
* Compiled by Prof Debbie Habedi, Senior Lecturer, Department of Health Studies: College of Human Sciences
Publish date: 2023/08/30
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