Introduction: A New Chapter in Aging
Madam Quek Lee Hai, a 75-year-old retiree residing in Kallang, Singapore, faced challenges that many elderly individuals encounter, including loneliness and complex health management. With chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, her journey toward healthy aging was fraught with difficulties until she discovered community support programs designed to enrich her quality of life.
A Connection that Changed Everything
Things took a positive turn for Madam Quek when a friend introduced her to the Adventist Active Centre in Kallang, which houses a community health post (CHP) managed by NHG Health. With a dedicated community nurse, Cao Wenping, visiting her regularly, Madam Quek received the medical guidance she had long needed. During these visits, Ms. Cao not only monitored Madam Quek’s chronic conditions but also helped her navigate a complicated medication regimen, organizing them in a user-friendly pill box.
Building a Network of Care
Through the CHP, Madam Quek was connected to her healthcare providers, allowing her to maintain consistent communication with her general practitioners. “I’m very grateful for the medical advice of my friendly doctor,” she says. Furthermore, Ms. Cao’s emphasis on healthier eating and access to various community resources at the active aging center helps to uplift Madam Quek’s spirits and reinforce her commitment to better health.
Embracing Community and Activities
Now, rather than sitting alone by her window, Madam Quek’s life is filled with engaging activities. She participates in exercise classes like ball drumming and painting, and enjoys community dining sessions that foster social engagement. Beyond physical health, she also receives emotional support from counselors affiliated with social service agency O’Joy, underscoring the holistic approach to well-being that NHG Health advocates.
The Impact of NHG Health’s Initiatives
Madam Quek represents a larger story of NHG Health’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents across its 12 towns in Singapore. The organization aims to add 15 million years of healthy life to its 1.5 million residents by integrating healthcare services into their communities. Facilities like CHPs play a crucial role in providing vital health checks, counseling, and advice close to home.
Preventive Health Measures for All Ages
NHG Health doesn’t just focus on the elderly; it also emphasizes preventive health across all age groups. The Mammobus screening program, for example, helped Ms. Salinah Kader detect cancer early, showcasing the significance of proactive health checks. Furthermore, the Healthy Communities @ Workplaces initiative tailors health interventions for companies, promoting healthier habits among employees.
Nurturing Future Generations
Recognizing the importance of instilling healthy habits in children, NHG Health partnered with schools like Yishun Primary School. Veteran canteen vendor Sally Tan implemented healthier cooking practices, ensuring that students have access to nutritious meals. Her involvement demonstrates how community initiatives promote well-being from an early age, setting the stage for healthier future generations.
Conclusion: The Path Forward
Madam Quek’s transformed life showcases how community support, education, and integrated healthcare can empower individuals to age well. As NHG Health continues to make healthcare accessible and personalized, the stories of residents like Madam Quek reflect a promising future for healthy aging in Singapore. Through these initiatives, the potential for a richer, healthier life is not just a dream but a tangible reality for many.
