With You in Mind
Issue 5 | December 2024
Hi there! Welcome to the December issue of With You in Mind, a newsletter by Dementia Singapore in collaboration with The Straits Times.
Dementia, affecting one in 11 Singaporeans over 60, involves a decline in cognitive functions like memory and problem-solving, often caused by conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease or blood-flow-related brain damage that can lead to vascular dementia.
While it cannot be reversed, lifestyle changes like regular exercise, social engagement, and cognitively stimulating activities, such as playing mahjong or group tasks, can lower risks and improve well-being.
In her article, Sumiko Tan, executive editor of The Straits Times, shares insights from medical professionals on early signs of dementia and suggests proactive steps to keep the brain active and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
Also, read about the inspiring story of social entrepreneur Koh Seng Choon, who launched Dignity Kitchenette in October – a chain of food kiosks that trains and employs people with early dementia or mental illness or those recovering from cancer. This follows the success of Dignity Kitchen, which provides hawker training and jobs to people with disabilities and disadvantaged people.
The first Dignity Kitchenette is located at Yio Chu Kang bus interchange, and there are plans to open five more outlets by 2025. Each stall is manned by six to eight people who are recommended by groups such as Dementia Singapore, the Institute of Mental Health and the National Neuroscience Institute.
Additionally, we delve into the unique challenges young caregivers face as they balance caregiving for family members with pursuing their education or careers, often resulting in stress, isolation, and mental health struggles. Yet, this demanding role also cultivates empathy, resilience and maturity.
However, most resources are designed for older caregivers, often neglecting the unique needs of younger individuals. Tailored support, including counselling and flexible arrangements, can help lighten their load and enhance their well-being.
Happy reading!
What can you do to prevent dementia?
Age and genes can’t be modified, but you can work on other risk factors to delay or prevent dementia, say experts.
Extra $140 million to support expansion of active ageing centres: Ong Ye Kung
The enhanced Home Personal Care (HPC+) service, which offers support for daily activities like showering, feeding and housekeeping, will also be rolled out islandwide by end-2025.
Social entrepreneur’s new food venture hires those with dementia, cancer survivors
Project Dignity founder Koh Seng Choon’s mission of focusing on abilities, not disabilities, continues to transform lives through employment and community support.
Young caregivers: Balancing the stress, developing empathy
Experts say younger caregivers may become more common in an ageing society with falling birthrates and they face multiple challenges that differ from older caregivers.
More seniors aged 65 and older to get help to combat frailty
The Frailty Programme, which focuses on three areas, will be extended to all National Healthcare Group polyclinics in the central region by end-2025.
Centre for mental health, active ageing opens in Toa Payoh
Space@214 runs mental health programmes and services such as screening for depression and dementia, and counselling for those who need emotional support.
Happiness in helping: Meet the active seniors who volunteer to guide and coach
A study by researchers from Nanyang Technological University and Duke-NUS Medical School has found that older adults who volunteer report better quality of life.
Over 230,000 older Singaporeans have drawn up lasting power of attorney
More can be done to dispel misconceptions and normalise conversations about legacy planning, ensuring individuals’ wishes are honoured in case of mental incapacity.
New fall-risk screening process more easily accessible to seniors
Trial being rolled out for assessment to be done by trained staff at active ageing centres, unlike other screening tools which require a clinician and can be costly.
Health professionals pick up magic tricks to engage and build rapport with patients
Magic activities can also help patients overcome the monotony of physiotherapy exercises and enhance the cognitive training of those suffering from dementia.
This newsletter is brought to you by Dementia Singapore in collaboration with The Straits Times.
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