Building an inclusive society for Singapore's elderly

Speech by Ms Grace Fu, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth at All Saints Home Thanksgiving Dinner 2017

Chairman, Mr Ng Keok Boon,
Organising Chairman, Mr Jim Seah
And also, CEO, Mr Michael Tay
Distinguished Guests;
Ladies and Gentlemen.

1. A very good evening to all of you, and I am delighted to join you this evening at your Thanksgiving Dinner. Congratulations on your 31st anniversary.
2. In the past three decades, All Saints Home has been providing quality care to the elderly and chronically-ill. From a single hall with 30 beds, you have expanded to four centres, with a total capacity of over 730 beds. You provide a broad range of services to all residents, regardless of race, language, religion or family background. Thank you so much for your service to the community.
   
   

   Co-creating a caring and inclusive society for our elderly

3. By 2030, one in four Singaporeans will be 65 years old and above. This is one of the clearest signs of our ageing population. While growing old is nothing to be afraid of, we need to find ways to help our seniors age gracefully and joyfully.
4. The Government supports and engages our senior citizens in active ageing – through the arts, sports, as well as providing good and affordable healthcare services. Our community partners also have an important role to play in co-creating a caring and inclusive environment for our elderly.
5. At the Yishun centre for instance, neighbours and volunteers come together to grow and harvest their favourite fruits and vegetables. Seniors can also exercise at the centre, and enjoy hearty and nutritious soup prepared by its community kitchen. The centre is a natural touchpoint for seniors, volunteers and residents to interact and connect. The kampong spirit is indeed alive and well!
6. At the Jurong East centre, a special Dementia Care Ward provides a conducive environment for residents with dementia. A team of specialist doctors, therapists and nurses, gives personalised care to each resident. The centres also benefit from the help of many big-hearted volunteers. The volunteers come from all walks of life, including students from neighbouring schools, local grassroots and churches. They support the residents in doing simple exercises, conducting arts and crafts, as well as joining them in karaoke, games and music therapy activities.
7. I would really like to make a special mention to all the volunteers, who have selflessly devoted their time, care and love, to help the elderly amongst us. I’d just like to ask the volunteers to stand so that we can acknowledge you, to be counted. Thank you very much!
8. I had the opportunity to speak to some elderly before coming into the hall, and they told me that one of their favourite exercises is table tennis. They play with a normal-sized table; and for that to happen, and for the elders to enjoy the game, I’m sure that there are many volunteers that are there to pick up the table tennis balls.
9. That is just one illustration of how a volunteer can make a difference. Without the volunteers, some of the games and exercises, the music, the art, couldn’t have happened. I’d just like to let you know, that what you are doing, has brought a lot of joy to the residents. They name it as one of their favourite part of the activities. So thank you very much to our volunteers once again.
   
   

   A caring community in All Saints Home

10. Indeed, All Saints Home could not have helped so many people without the generous support of donors, passionate volunteers and dedicated industry partners. Your giving has made a huge difference to the lives of the residents. Let me share two examples.
11. Ms Jennifer Yip was diagnosed with severe bleeding in her brain. Her aged parents were unable to provide the necessary care for her. With your support, Jennifer is receiving quality care at the Tampines Centre. Her parents are able to cope better, and they can visit her at the Centre.
12. Mr Jamaludin was diagnosed with an early stage of Parkinson’s. Despite his condition, he makes an effort to live life to the fullest. With your financial help, he participates in recreational activities, from playing simple board games to performing regularly at events. Having lost contact with his family 14 years ago, Mr Jamaludin relies on his long-time friend Mdm Hairi, as well as the nurses, doctors and volunteers at the Home for social and emotional support.
13. At the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, we are working with partners to grow this spirit of SG Cares. Your contributions exemplify SG Cares, because you inspire others to step forward and look out for one another, to care for one another, and to ensure that no one is left behind.
    
    

    Conclusion

14. In the coming years, our capacity to support our seniors in active ageing must be strengthened. Let us continue to work together to make Singapore a more caring and inclusive society.
15. Thank you very much and have an enjoyable evening!