Elderly residents in Cape Town form sewing group to combat isolation

Joyce Dayimane founded the Siyakha Adult group in Site C, Khayelitsha, Cape Town, to support elderly residents facing emotional stress and social isolation.

Dayimane started the initiative in 2013 after observing elderly people being left to raise grandchildren while their children took government grants. The group meets three times a week to provide a space where members can speak openly about their problems and receive advice from peers.

Members contribute 100 Rand from their monthly grants to pay for coffee and meals during their meetings. To generate extra income, the group members sew aprons and Xhosa traditional dresses to sell for 100 to 200 Rand. This activity keeps the members busy and helps cover the costs of the group. The group also encourages members to contact social workers to resolve issues regarding their grants.

Nomandiya Tshongweni, a member of the group, says the safe space helps her avoid bottling up her emotions and improves her health. While a local ward councillor previously provided household items to the group, new city rules prevent the office from purchasing those items, prompting the councillor to seek other ways to provide support.