Everything you need to apply for a SASSA Old Age Pension. Picture: File/Fotor.
If you or an elderly loved one needs 24-hour care, here’s everything you need to know to place them in an older person’s care facility.
Everything you need to apply for a SASSA Old Age Pension. Picture: File/Fotor.
If you worry that your dearly beloved elder needs 24-hour assistance, did you know that you can place them in a government-run older person’s care facility?
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The December holidays are usually not a very festive time for the country’s elderly. Family often go their separate ways at this time of year and it’s the aged who are left fending for themselves alone.
However, did you know that if you or an elderly family member is receiving a SASSA older person’s grant and is over the age of 60, you can apply for a bed in an older person’s care facility?
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To qualify for admission, you or the elder must be in need of full-time assistance. But they must also:
Contact the Department of Social Development (DSD) office to find the nearest suitable older person’s care facility. Note admission is dependent on availability of beds. Below are some useful contacts:
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While not a detailed list, according to SASSAcheck.com there are older person’s care facilities at the following locations:
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Visit an approved government facility and complete an application form. You will need a valid South African identity document and recent medical report. All application forms must be completed on-site and costs may vary.
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As part of the admission process the elder will undergo a screening test. If the person is too old or sick to travel, a family member/friend may apply on their behalf. A social worker will then arrange a home visit to assess current living conditions and whether 24-hour care is needed.
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If an application to an older person’s care facility is not approved you must get a reason in handwriting. You can then appeal to the Department of Social Development (DSD). Applications are processed within 14 working days and you should reach out to the DSD if you have not received a response within a month.
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