Nursed Back to Happiness and Health

With a vibrant social environment, Mdm Tang Swee Moy unleashes her fullest potential

When Mdm Tang Swee Moy was first admitted to the Lodge, she was frail and weak due to medical complications, months of hospitalisation and constant change of environments. Her body mass index (BMI) plummeted to an unhealthy 14.7 kg/m². Based on Mdm Tang’s rich life history, the care staff worked together to nurse Mdm Tang back to health physically, mentally and emotionally.

Building a Familiar Routine

From Mdm Tang’s rich life history, the care staff recognised her occupational needs revolved mainly around chores in the home and caring for her family as a housewife. Therefore, Mdm Tang was tasked with various chores around the Home such as meal preparations and cleaning to provide her a sense of familiarity and belonging. Mdm Tang never shies away from lending a helping hand whenever she can. This approach was a naturalised form of rehabilitation for Mdm Tang as she gradually built more strength and endurance.

Meaningful Engagements

To encourage opportunities for socialisation with her friends in Gerbera Home and for Mdm Tang to enjoy a vacationing lifestyle, she participates avidly in From Farm to Table. From Farm to Table is a signature activity of the Assisted Living Homes. There are rich tasks available in the programme that cater to the different interests and talents of the residents.  Together with her friends, Mdm Tang is involved in various tasks, from seeding to harvesting, cooking and enjoying the fruits and vegetables of their labour.

To meet Mdm Tang’s psychological aspirations, she is also engaged in various Mindfulness programmes such as Mindful Immersive Nature Therapy (MINT) and Tangle Art. These programmes provide a platform for persons with dementia to experience mindfulness in tangible, fun and creative ways. Mdm Tang is free to express herself through different sensory elements with nature as the facilitator, and through repetitive, structured patterns while drawing.

Mdm Tang is thankful to be purposefully engaged in well-rounded programmes that support her overall wellness and well-being. The care staff have also witnessed massive improvements in her overall health, with her BMI rising to a healthy level of 18.3 kg/m² and her score improving from 2 to 1 on the Cognitive Performance Scale.

Supporting Mdm Tang’s Autonomy and Independence

Even during her free time, Mdm Tang can be rest assured that she spends her time safely and securely due to the Lodge’s dementia-friendly environment. She is free to explore the garden at her own pace, or have conversations over coffee with her friends in the living areas. Mdm Tang is proud to be independent and she takes her responsibilities in the Home with great pride and joy.