26 (b) have opportunities to associate and to be represented and participate in political, social, economic and other spheres of life; (c) are afforded opportunities for employment and other avenues to economic empowerment; (d) have opportunities for recreational activities and access to recreational facilities; and (e) are protected from harmful cultural practices, exploitation and all forms of abuse. 2.13 Elderly persons (1) The State and all institutions and agencies of government at every level must take reasonable measures, including legislative measures, to secure respect, support and protection for elderly persons and to enable them to participate in the life of their communities. (2) The State and all institutions and agencies of government at every level must endeavour, within the resources available to them— (a) to encourage elderly persons to participate fully in the affairs of society; (b) to provide facilities, food and social care for elderly persons who are in need; (c) to develop programmes to give elderly persons the opportunity to engage in productive activity suited to their abilities and consistent with their vocations and desires; and (d) to foster social organisations aimed at improving the quality of life of elderly persons. 2.14 Persons with disabilities (1) All State and institutions and agencies of government at every level must recognise the rights of persons with physical or mental disabilities, in particular their right to be treated with respect and dignity. (2) All State and institutions and agencies of government at every level must endeavour, within the resources available to them, to assist persons with physical or mental disabilities to achieve their full potential and to minimise the disadvantages suffered by them. (3) In particular, the State and institutions and agencies of government at every level must endeavour— (a) to develop programmes for the welfare of persons with physical or mental disabilities, especially work programmes consistent with their capabilities and acceptable to them or their legal representatives; (b) to consider the specific requirements of persons with all forms of disability as one of the priorities in development plans; (c) to encourage the use and development of forms of communication suitable for use by persons with physical or mental disabilities; and (d) to foster social organisations aimed at improving the quality of life of persons with all forms of disability. (4) The State must take appropriate measures to ensure that buildings and amenities to which the public has access are accessible for use by persons with disabilities.