Programme to help seniors take charge of their health

Programme to help seniors take charge of their health

I REFER to the article “Ageing in comfort and with dignity” by Dr Chiang Hai Ding, Dr Rosemary Khoo and Dr Philbert Chin (Jan 10) and three letters published on Jan 16 (“Start planning for ‘retirement blocks’”; Forum Online, “‘Working in place’ approach to retirement housing” and “Key lies in integration, not separation”).

I would like to share with readers the PA Wellness Programme, a community-based active-ageing initiative by the People’s Association that helps our seniors take charge of their health – physically, mentally and socially.

Beyond regular health-screening sessions, we encourage seniors to follow through with the necessary corrective medical attention and also participate in community activities to keep physically and mentally healthy.

When our grassroots volunteers come across seniors who require assistance, they will also offer the necessary support, such as providing suitable financial assistance and working with the right partners to meet seniors’ needs.

Since the programme started in 2010, we have also seen seniors forming and leading many interest groups.

These interest groups are made up of young and old. Because of their regular interactions, members tend to develop stronger friendships over time.

In fact, such interest groups often act as an informal roll call where members look out for one another, and even help one another during emergencies.

Our seniors also achieve a deep sense of fulfilment when they are able to impart their experience and knowledge to others, especially the younger generation. 

I would like to encourage our seniors to embrace wellness, come forward and join us in staying active, healthy and happy.

To find out more about our programmes, please visit the nearest community club or one.pa.gov.sg

Tan Yong Seng (Dr)

Chairman

PA Active Ageing Council


Get a copy of The Straits Times or go to straitstimes.com for more stories.

This website is best viewed using the latest versions of web browsers.