Introduction: The Journey of Madam Quek Lee Hai
At 75 years old, Madam Quek Lee Hai once found solace in the silence of her home, waiting by the window as time passed slowly. Battling loneliness and a complex medication routine for diabetes and hypertension, Madam Quek faced many challenges as she aged. However, everything changed when a friend introduced her to the Adventist Active Centre located in Kallang.
Community Health Support: The Role of the CHP
The heart of the support for Madam Quek comes from the NHG Health Community Health Post (CHP), where community nurse Cao Wenping has become a familiar and comforting presence in her life. Ms. Cao’s regular home visits ensure Madam Quek’s chronic conditions are carefully monitored. She not only assists in organizing Madam Quek’s medications into a clear, labeled pill box but also collaborates with the doctors at the Healthier SG GP clinic to manage her health effectively.
“I’m very grateful for the medical advice of my friendly doctor,” Madam Quek expresses. This connection is vital for her positive experience, as it helps keep her health challenges at bay while also focusing on healthier lifestyle choices.
Transforming Lives Through Active Participation
Since connecting with the Adventist Active Centre, Madam Quek has transformed her daily routine. Gone are the days of solitude; she now participates in exercise ball drumming and painting classes, enthusiastically looking forward to community dining sessions. The engagement does not end there; she also connects with counselors from O’Joy, a social service agency that offers emotional support. The combination of physical activity and social interaction has lifted her spirits significantly.
“These days, I am in better control of my health and feel lighter at heart,” Madam Quek shares with a smile, showcasing the profound impact of community support on her life.
NHG Health’s Wider Impact on the Community
Madam Quek’s story is just one example of how NHG Health impacts residents in 12 towns across Singapore. The organization’s mission is ambitious: to reclaim years typically spent in poor health and collectively add 15 million years of healthy life for 1.5 million residents. By working alongside family doctors and community partners, NHG Health ensures that every individual has a personalized care plan tailored to their specific needs.
Through the 105 Communities of Care, which comprise networks of health and social care organizations, residents gain comprehensive support from family doctors, nurses, and pharmacists. These efforts are focused on preventing illness and managing chronic conditions right within the community, making healthcare accessible to all.
Preventive Health Initiatives: A Closer Look
NHG Health extends its support beyond seniors. For instance, working adults benefit greatly from preventive screenings, as highlighted by Ms. Salinah Kader’s experience. Early detection through the Mammobus screening program allowed her to catch cancer in its early stages, leading to successful treatment and recovery.
Moreover, NHG Health’s initiatives also target workplace wellness. The Healthy Communities @ Workplaces program assists companies in promoting employee health by curating relevant health interventions. Employees, like Lindy Siew from DHL Express, have embraced healthier choices as a result of these workshops, demonstrating that workplace wellness can indeed foster healthier lifestyles.
Building a Healthier Future for the Young
Recognizing that good health habits start young, NHG Health has also launched initiatives in schools. At Yishun Primary School, canteen vendor Sally Tan has begun implementing healthier meal options in line with the Healthy Meals in Schools Programme. “It’s meaningful to know we’re not just running a stall but contributing to the health of future generations,” Madam Tan proudly states.
Conclusion: The Power of Community Care
Madam Quek Lee Hai’s story exemplifies how community-driven health initiatives can profoundly impact individual lives, demonstrating that with the right support, aging can be a positive and fulfilling experience. NHG Health’s commitment to bringing preventive health closer to home is paving the way for healthier, happier communities across Singapore.
