As the number of dementia cases continues to increase worldwide and with so few affordable care options available in so many communities, ADASA (Alzheimer’s and Dementia Association of South Africa) has appointed a number of Community Development Workers on part-time contracts around the country.
These workers, funded by Alexander Forbes, are tasked to focus on raising awareness of Dementia, in particular among younger people in township areas so often under-serviced in this regard. As a result, many do not fully understand the symptoms of the disease and, additionally, struggle with the cost implications of providing ongoing care.
We are indeed fortunate that one of these Community Development Workers has been allocated to the Kenton area, to work with the residents of Marselle, Klipfontein and Ekuphumleni. And so it is that Coastal Kindness is pleased to welcome Thembi van Rensburg as she takes up this new and crucial position as of 1 July.
Thembi grew up in the Bathurst area and later moved to the Stirk farm with her family. In 2009, after the death of her father, she moved to Ekuphumleni, and then to Klipfontein when she married in 2015. So she is firmly rooted in and familiar with our area.
So a new position, yes, but Thembi is already well-known to a goodly number of residents, having worked as a carer over the last twenty or so years at Settlers Park, Damant Lodge and Dolphin Coast and, more recently, as a palliative care worker. And whence this passion for helping others? Thembi says it springs from the example set by her family, and in particular by her father whose focus was always on helping those in need.
Thembi continues to work as a carer while working part-time with our local communities for ADASA. She has already been at work addressing church groups, visiting care centres and elderly people living alone. Future plans include raising awareness through visits to schools and local youth groups.
Thembi may be contacted on 083 618 2357 for further information or if you would like to arrange for her to talk to your community group.
Coastal Kindness – caring for you
