Serene Low finds strength and peace in caregiving by connecting with others facing similar challenges.
Caring for a Loved One with Dementia
Serene Low, a 58-year-old teacher, has been caring for her 84-year-old mother, Madam Chow Fong Kheng, who was diagnosed with dementia in 2020. Early in her caregiving journey, Ms. Low felt overwhelmed and unsure about how to manage her mother’s behaviors, including midnight outbursts and daytime tantrums. These challenges led her to stop working for over a year, impacting both her mental health and sleep.
Finding Support Through Care Corner Singapore
The emotional toll of caregiving led Ms. Low to seek help, and she found much-needed support through Care Corner Singapore, a social service agency. The organization runs a caregiver support group for families managing dementia care, which became a lifeline for Ms. Low. Through this group, she gained insights into effective caregiving techniques and the emotional coping strategies needed for such a demanding role.
Care Corner recently opened a new centre, Space@214, in Toa Payoh, which offers caregiving resources, mental health services, and programs for seniors. Mr. Joe Tan, head of integrated case management at Care Corner, highlighted the area’s ageing population, noting that services like these are crucial for addressing both mental health and active ageing needs.
Community Support for Caregivers and Seniors
Space@214 also provides various programs, including a brisk-walking initiative called “Mindful Steps,” which combines cognitive stimulation with physical exercise. This initiative is particularly beneficial for seniors who may be reluctant to join traditional mental health programs due to stigma. By incorporating physical and mental health elements, the program encourages seniors to connect with their emotions and improve their well-being.
The Role of Caregivers and the Challenges They Face
Mr. Tan emphasized the increasing need for dementia support services as Singapore’s population ages. Many caregivers, especially those in their 50s and 60s, are facing burnout and neglecting their own health. The Care Corner support group offers a platform for caregivers to connect and share experiences, fostering a sense of solidarity.
For Ms. Low, the support group has been a source of relief, as she no longer feels isolated in her caregiving journey. By interacting with other caregivers and professionals, she learned to manage her emotions and adopt new strategies to care for her mother. She expressed that sharing her struggles with others has made her feel more at peace with her caregiving role.
Conclusion
Serene Low’s experience highlights the importance of community support for caregivers, particularly in dealing with the emotional and practical challenges of caring for a loved one with dementia. Through platforms like Care Corner Singapore, caregivers can gain valuable insights and emotional support, helping them navigate the difficulties of their caregiving journey.
