In situations where poverty is the order of the day, the elderly is extremely vulnerable.  The HBC programme was initiated in 2000 at the time when the HIV/AIDS epidemic became prevalent.  Many elderly, either sick and/or stranded were found in their homes during our outreaches to the community. The aim is to nurse patients in their own homes, providing the necessary medical assistance required, and in the case of TB, DOT-support (Direct Observation Treatment) to all the sick at home.  We also participate in the Department of Health’s adherence club strategy in actively fighting HIV/AIDS.

Services provided are:

• Supportive, holistic, comprehensive home-based care for 90 sick people in Soshanguve and the areas surrounding the Home.  This service is provided in their own homes, ensuring continuity of health care in the community within the principles of Primary Health Care.
• Adherence Clubs:  Chronic Medication Service Point.
• Active ageing programmes.
• Community garden.

Challenges:

A small grant for Home Based Care is received from Social Development.  It covers a small stipend for Health Care Workers, an allowance for the Driver and the Co-ordinator.  The deficit is paid from the funds from the Home, which is obtained by fundraising efforts and donations.