Elderly / Frail Care Center

About the Program

This Elderly/Frail Care Center opened its doors 1959 and initially only served as basic accommodation for the elderly (who could look after themselves), and offered no additional services. However, this changed in 1994 with the official end of Apartheid and a change of government. The new government wanted to move away from the institutionalization of the elderly, so this home, and many similar facilities changed their portfolio to frail care centers – this means that they now provide not only accommodation, but 24-hour nursing care and additional services such as Chiropody, Hairdressing facilities, weekly shopping outings, daily cleaning and laundry services and 3 healthy meals per day. Physiotherapy sessions have also recently been brought in, with the goal of eventually recuperating the elderly to a position of being able to help themselves with most daily activities. 

The facility currently has 70 residents, ranging in ages from 45 – 90yrs. Many of the current residents are unable to live without assistance, and suffer from a wide range of conditions such as Diabetes, various Cancers, Hypertension, Schizophrenia 4, Dementia,  Peripheral Vascular Disease, Huntington’s Chorea, and Korzikoff syndrome. Without this frail care center, most of these residents would be left unattended and on their own. Due to a very limited number of staff, volunteers (both local and international) are always more than welcome to assist in any way possible.

Depending on the length of stay, the project supervisor tries to have volunteers work in various parts of the facility on a weekly basis in order to get a full understanding of how the center operates. Their main area of work will be with the Carers (nursing staff) on duty, with tasks such as:

-              Bathing the clients

-              Dressing them and assisting them to the toilet

-              Feed the clients during meal times

-              Interact with, and entertain the clients during free time – face-to-face interaction is of key importance

-              Assist with other daily activities including exercise

-              Assist in physiotherapy sessions

-              Kitchen duties: help with food preparation and cleaning

-              Laundry: Help sort clothing and treat infected clothing

-              Volunteers who want to learn more about the inner workings of the centre, can assist in the office and reception too.

Cape Town is one of Africa’s most popular tourist destinations for a reason. Its beaches, such as Camp’s Bay, are world renown, and Cape Town’s beachfront and downtown areas are lively at any time. During the day it is easy to find artisans selling their crafts or outdoor cafes to enjoy the Mediterranean climate. At night, there are many excellent bars, clubs and restaurants where locals and foreigners can relax and socialize.
There are numerous cultural sites to visit, including the Bo-Kaap neighborhood and the Castle of Good Hope. They reflect Cape Town’s long history and help explain why the city is one of the most multicultural in the word. Robben Island, the infamous prison where political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela, were held during apartheid is a difficult but necessary stop. For outdoor lovers, Cape Town has a wide mix of opportunities. Table Mountain is a breathtaking spot to visit, and there are many nearby hills, mountains and trails that make for great biking, climbing and hiking. Many, like Lion’s Head Mountain, also offer stunning views over the city and ocean below. Join in on tours down the Garden Route and a Game Drive to spot the Big 5!