An elderly man from a village in Matabeleland North province was found dead outside his home, highlighting the plight of unsupported seniors.
Titshala Ncube, 85, from Mahlabathini Village 6 in Inyathi reportedly had no one to take care of him. He had lost his wife years ago and his 17-year-old grandson was unable to care for him.
According to a witness, Ncube could no longer walk and would crawl to people’s homes looking for food. Although he had a son who lived in Bulawayo, it seems the son had neglected his father.
Ncube would often come to one villager’s house asking for food. On Thursday, he appeared pale and frail so the villager helped wheelbarrow him home.
The next morning, villagers were sh0cked to discover Ncube’s body outside his house. Police spokesperson Inspector Glory Banda said they had not yet received information on Ncube’s death.
Ncube’s fate underscores the struggles faced by seniors abandoned without sufficient care and support. It reminds us of the importance of ensuring our aging loved ones have the dignity of receiving the care they need to live out their final years. Neglecting seniors goes against African values of respecting and caring for the elderly. Communities must come together and provide resources to support those left alone in their old age.
