The South African National Policy Dialogue on Elder Care: Transforming Elder Care through Collective Policy Action across Southern Africa

Abstract

How is elder care actually sustained in South Africa? Despite progressive legislation, most long-term care for older persons is provided quietly within households, carried largely by unpaid family members and under-resourced community organisations. As the population ages and chronic illness rises, this invisible care system is under increasing strain.This report presents the findings of the <b>National Policy Dialogue on Elder Care in South Africa</b>, convened in June 2025. Bringing together government departments, civil-society organisations, researchers, service providers, and caregivers, the dialogue examined the realities of elder care and explored practical pathways for policy reform.Discussions across five key themes—social protection for family caregivers, subsidised care materials, the built environment, mental health and dignity in care, and home-based care services—revealed a central challenge: South Africa’s elder-care policies exist, but implementation is fragmented, uneven, and underfunded.The report highlights the urgent need for coordinated national leadership, sustainable financing, and stronger support for caregivers and community services. It argues that recognising caregiving as a public good is essential if older persons are to age with dignity in South Africa.