For more than six decades, the Issy Geshen Lamont Home has provided care and support to vulnerable elders in Lamontville and surrounding communities in KwaZulu Natal. The Home's work is grounded in the belief that human rights do not diminish with age, and that every older person deserves to live in an environment where they are treated with dignity, compassion and respect.

A critical component in safeguarding these rights is the work of the Home's Social Worker, Nelly Ngcobo-Ngwazi, a qualified social worker from the University of KwaZulu-Natal with nearly two decades of experience across youth and crime prevention, medical social work and geriatric care. Since joining the Issy Geshen Lamont Home in 2013, she has played a vital role in supporting residents and advocating for their wellbeing, says the Home.

Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, alongside the Nursing Sister, Matron, Doctor and Occupational Therapy Assistant, Nelly also serves as a key liaison between the Home, families and institutions such as the Department of Social Development and SASSA to ensure residents receive the necessary social and welfare support. Reflecting on her profession, Nelly describes social work as both challenging and deeply rewarding, noting that despite limited resources and pressures, the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in someone’s life remains profoundly humbling.

As part of the Human Rights Day commemoration, the Home will host a group discussion with residents on the rights and responsibilities of older persons. Representatives from the SAPS and the Bessie Makatini Foundation will join the engagement, sharing insights on community safety and the protection of vulnerable elders. The 2026 observance is especially significant as South Africa marks 30 years since the adoption of the Constitution, reaffirming the country’s commitment to dignity, equality and human rights for all, adds the Home.

The Issy Geshen Lamont Home has also launched its Dignity Care Campaign, an initiative that calls on supporters, donors and members of the public to assist in providing Elder Care Packs for residents. These care packs will consist of essential items such as basic toiletries, which play a crucial role in maintaining the comfort, hygiene and dignity of elderly residents.

Issy Geshen Lamont Home's General Manager, Sifiso Ngidi, says the launch of the Dignity Care Campaign during Human Rights Month serves as an important reminder that dignity must be upheld through the everyday care and respect shown to older persons.

"Human Rights Month reminds us that dignity is not an abstract concept, but something experienced in the daily care and respect we show one another," Ngidi says. "Through the Dignity Care Campaign, we are inviting the community to stand with us in ensuring that every elder in our care receives the comfort, dignity and respect they deserve."

The campaign highlights the often-unseen costs associated with caring for vulnerable elders, particularly those requiring frail care support. Contributions towards these care packs will assist the Home in ensuring that residents continue to receive the essential items that support their wellbeing and dignity, says the Home.

As South Africa reflects on the meaning of Human Rights Day, the Home encourages communities to remember that protecting the rights of older persons is a shared responsibility. Through compassion, community engagement and continued support, it is possible to ensure that every elder lives with the dignity and respect that is their fundamental human right, concludes the Home.

For more information, visit www.issygeshen.co.za. You can also follow Issy Geshen Lamont Home on Facebook, LinkedIn, or on Instagram. 

*Image courtesy of contributor