With You in Mind
Issue 11 | June 2025
Hi there!
Welcome to the June issue of With You in Mind, a newsletter by Dementia Singapore in collaboration with The Straits Times.
A nationwide survey conducted in 2023 by the Singapore Management University reveals that stigma and social exclusion remain persistent challenges for people living with dementia. Sixty per cent say they are perceived as less competent and over half feel excluded from daily life.
Yet, there are encouraging signs – fewer now report feelings of shame or rejection compared to 2019 and public awareness is gradually improving. The findings highlight both the progress made and the work that still lies ahead in creating a more understanding, inclusive society for all.
In this spirit, we also spotlight the role of meaningful employment in supporting those living with dementia. A growing number of individuals in Singapore are showing that staying in the workforce is possible with the right support.
While dementia is often seen as a career-ending diagnosis, advocates emphasise that with empathy and thoughtful job redesign, individuals can continue to contribute in purposeful ways.
More employers are stepping up to make this a reality. From laundry facilities to cafes, inclusive businesses are adapting roles to suit individual strengths – offering these employees routine, and a renewed sense of identity. With flexibility and understanding, people with dementia are proving they can still play valuable roles in the workforce.
Technology and community care are also making a difference in the lives of the elderly, and those impacted by dementia. Two teams from the Build for Good Hackathon – CareCompass and Heartbeat – are rolling out new tools to support caregivers and seniors.
CareCompass helps users find services and subsidies more easily, while Heartbeat allows seniors living alone to check in daily and alerts caregivers when something seems amiss. Both were developed with input from government agencies and real caregivers to ensure real-world relevance.
On the ground, more Singaporeans are stepping up too. Meet the Yeo family – a trio of Silver Generation Ambassadors who visit seniors in their homes, connect them to services and offer friendship and support. For them, volunteering is not just about giving back but also about learning, growing and building stronger bonds across generations.
Dignity and purpose: What having a job means for those with dementia
A dementia diagnosis doesn’t have to end someone’s working life, as empathy and job redesign help individuals continue to contribute in meaningful ways.
60% of people with dementia feel they are treated as less competent: SMU study
Though stigma has eased since 2019, many continue to feel sidelined, underscoring the urgent need for greater awareness, social support and inclusive engagement.
S’poreans come together to build apps for caregivers and isolated seniors
CareCompass helps families find care services and subsidies easily, while Heartbeat offers daily emotional and safety check-ins for seniors living independently.
Asia’s first caregiver podcast sheds light on the three unspoken stressors of caregiving
Guests share raw stories of neglect, identity loss and silent grief, revealing the emotional toll hidden behind duty, tradition and unspoken expectations.
Seniors are taking the kampung spirit beyond the neighbourhood
It’s time to support an “ageing in networks” approach – one that recognises mobility, community, and connection beyond the block.
New nursing home, active ageing centres as Holland-Bukit Panjang aims to be ‘wellness heartland’
Neighbourhood upgrades will feature elder-friendly facilities, drop-off points and fitness zones to foster vibrant, inclusive communities.
New Singapore research centre to develop interventions to get people to make healthier choices
From battling obesity and diabetes to encouraging cancer screening, the hub uses behavioural strategies to tackle health inertia and turn intent into action.
Singapore built a nation underpinned by public health, but new threats loom
As future health challenges grow more complex and global, Singapore must deepen its role in health diplomacy and sustain its bold public health foresight.
New initiative to monitor seniors’ health remotely to ensure timely care and support
Wireless devices alert caregivers to missed check-ins or abnormal readings, enabling faster medical response and reducing hospital admissions.
DBS Foundation launches $7.3m initiative to support vulnerable seniors
Thousands of seniors will receive regular meals, social support and grocery essentials as part of a community-first push to promote healthier, happier ageing.
This newsletter is brought to you by Dementia Singapore in collaboration with The Straits Times.
Share this newsletter!