Dementia Singapore's Debut - FEATURE 12 19 - Alzheimer's Disease Association
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FEATURE
Dementia
Singapore’s
Debut Make My Workplace
Dementia-Inclusive
12
Fostering A Spirit
19
of Giving
MCI (P) 045/02/2021 • VOLUME 5 ISSUE 2 • SEPTEMBER 2021
A Message from Speech by President
Our CEO Halimah Yacob
At The Official Launch of Dementia Singapore on 1 September 2021
Dear all,
O
Dr Ang Peng Chye, President of Dementia Singapore, (ADA), to establish 50 community outreach teams
n behalf of Dementia Singapore (formerly known as Ladies and Gentlemen and 21 community intervention teams to provide
Alzheimer’s Disease Association), I would like to welcome intervention to persons with, or at-risk of, dementia
T
you to our special edition of Voice of Dementia. To his month is World Alzheimer’s Month. It is as well as their caregivers. As of December last year,
commemorate our organisation’s rebranding, I am happy therefore my pleasure to launch Dementia these teams have reached out to over 380,000
to present this refreshed bi-annual newsletter – also our first Singapore today. people. MOH has also set up six dementia shared
edition published as Dementia Singapore – complete with our new care teams to build the capabilities of primary and
corporate colours and design. According to the Wellbeing of the Singapore Elderly community care providers, including nursing homes,
study conducted by the Institute of Mental Health in dementia care management.
As Dementia Singapore, our vision remains the same – to build a in 2013, it is estimated that one in 10 seniors aged
dementia-inclusive society. Our new corporate identity will better 60 and above have dementia. With our ageing For the larger community, Dementia-Friendly
position our organisation to be the national and regional leader in population, this can only mean that the number of Communities have been rolled out in 14 areas to
dementia care and services, and more accurately represents the people living with dementia is expected to rise over support people living with dementia and their
work that we do to support those impacted by dementia. time. Hence, it is imperative to plan ahead to improve caregivers. In these communities, people will learn
our capability and capacity for dementia care, and more about dementia. Persons with dementia and
In this special edition newsletter, we share what the name change introduce quality programmes to meet the growing their caregivers will feel included and supported
means, how it impacts our pursuit of dementia care in this ever- demand. At the same time, we need to create a to continue living well at home. This will also give
changing climate and our advocacy efforts in the road ahead. dementia-friendly society. caregivers greater peace of mind, as they know that
On top of that, we also introduce our latest online resource, the the community is safe for their loved ones to reside
‘Business Toolkit for a Dementia-Inclusive Singapore’. This is the You may ask – what is a dementia-friendly society? in. Through this effort, we hope to build a society
first toolkit in Singapore that offers a three-stage framework that A dementia-friendly society is one where people that supports people living with dementia and their
can be integrated into business practices with the goal to make living with dementia are understood, respected, caregiver in their everyday lives.
organisations more dementia-friendly and inclusive. supported, and can move around safely with ease
in the communities they reside in. They can lead Today, I am pleased to announce that the ADA
We are also honoured to introduce Tay Ping Hui and Munah independent and meaningful lives. has completed its transition to the new ‘Dementia
Bagharib as our brand ambassadors. Passionate about the Singapore’. With this transformation, Dementia
dementia cause, we are certain that their entertainment industry We do so by adopting a multipronged approach of Singapore will expand its focus from Alzheimer’s
background and their influential voices will help Dementia developing dementia care for the population. On the Disease to other dementia-related conditions. This
Singapore reach people from all walks of life. Get to know them one hand, we need to reduce stigma and increase includes the launch of four dementia initiatives,
better in the following pages. awareness of dementia. On the other, we need to which will be rolled out over the course of the year.
improve care and support in the community, not These include a one-stop Dementia Resource Portal,
I would like to take this opportunity to thank our donors and just for those living with the condition but also their a Dementia Membership Programme, a Dementia-
stakeholders for your steadfast support through the years. With you caregivers. Inclusive Business Toolkit, and a Dementia-Inclusive
standing by our side and encouraging us, we will continue to make Assisted Living concept. These initiatives are good
big strides towards our vision as a dementia-inclusive society. I am glad that we have made some progress in first steps, and I urge Dementia Singapore to further
this direction. For example, this year, the Health assess the needs of the dementia community
As 2021 draws to a close, we hope you and your loved ones are Promotion Board launched a campaign on vascular here and work with the Government to boost our
coping well with the COVID-19 pandemic. It has not been easy, so dementia, one of the more common types of capabilities to build a dementia-friendly society.
give yourselves a pat on your back for making it through thus far. I dementia, to create awareness and encourage the
believe that our spirit of resilience as a nation will tide us over this public to seek help early if they detect related signs As Singapore continues our fight against the
challenging period. and symptoms. Risk factors for vascular dementia COVID-19 pandemic, we must make sure that no
include obesity and smoking, as well as chronic group is left behind. People living with dementia
Thank you and have an enjoyable read! conditions such as high blood pressure, high blood and their caregivers would undoubtedly have faced
cholesterol, and diabetes. We can all take active steps more challenges than others during this period, such
to reduce our risk of vascular dementia by adopting as increased social isolation and loneliness. Hence, I
Jason Foo healthy living habits such as having a balanced diet, urge everyone to practise empathy and do our part
Chief Executive Officer regular physical activity, not smoking, and attending to reach out to people living with dementia, such as
Dementia Singapore relevant health screening to facilitate early detection lending a helping hand to seniors who are in need.
and management of chronic conditions. With everyone’s support, I am confident that we are a
step closer to becoming a dementia-friendly society.
MOH and the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC) have
also worked with our community care partners, Congratulations Dementia Singapore.
including the Alzheimer’s Disease Association Thank you.
2 Voice OF Dementia Voice OF Dementia 3
Dementia “Changing societal needs are also
vital to our work, for example,
Singapore’s a service gap in building more
dementia-inclusive workplaces
for persons with dementia who
It is no longer just about the person
Debut
are still in the workforce. We living with the condition, but also about
aim to continue to track these
trends and needs in a post-
the emotional and mental needs of their
COVID-19 world, as well as lend care circle.
an expert voice on the dementia
T
care landscape in Singapore – MR STEPHEN CHAN, DIRECTOR OF CARE SERVICES
hirty-one years ago, WHAT’S IN A NAME and cement our place in it. All
Alzheimer’s Disease To better represent what we do our existing programmes and
Association (ADA) was and to emphasise our leading services, ongoing awareness-
founded by Dr Ang role as the national body for building efforts in the community
Peng Chye, who was inspired dementia care and services, and other upcoming initiatives digital platforms and unveiling a creation of better, more inclusive
to create an organisation to ADA has decided to rebrand and Lessons learned are now more important than fully revamped web experience. practices in our programmes,
help seniors with dementia and
their struggling families. ADA’s
reposition ourselves. from the past 31 ever as we strive towards a
dementia-inclusive society,” “We look forward to providing
services and initiatives. Dementia
Singapore looks forward
formation opened the doors This change was also decided to years serve as a added Mr Foo. like-minded individuals, families to building these advocacy
to dementia awareness and better suit the changing attitudes and organisations with easy capabilities, such as through our
education at a time when the of society, not just in Singapore reminder of why “Singapore is facing a big shift access to information and Voices for Hope empowerment
topic was either unheard of or
considered taboo.
but globally.
innovation and in the care community – it is no
longer just about the person
resources, so that our training
and consultancy efforts may
programme, or through the great
work of our Dementia Singapore
The use of the word “Alzheimer’s” reimagination living with the condition, but be multiplied. The upcoming Ambassadors,“ said Mr Stanley
A couple of ADA’s biggest is not accurate of our work, as we also about the emotional and Dementia Hub portal will Ho, Director of Advocacy &
achievements were being work with all kinds of dementia; are important. mental needs of their care circle. also serve as a tool to enable Communications, which oversees
appointed a ‘Centre of Alzheimer’s disease may be These needs are also ever- more organisations to provide advocacy and branding, media
– MR JASON FOO, CEO OF
Specialisation’ by the National the most common type of DEMENTIA SINGAPORE changing, and we hope to be dementia-inclusive programmes, relations and partnerships,
Council of Social Service since dementia, but only accounts for able to provide the necessary services and facilities,” said corporate communications
2007, and more recently in about 70% of those diagnosed support for the persons with Ms Koh Hwan Jing, Director of and the upcoming Dementia
2020, being appointed as one of with dementia. The use of the dementia and their families Community Enablement, which Membership Programme.
eight Learning Institutes under word “disease” also alludes to a to tackle these dementia oversees public education,
the Agency for Integrated Care negative image of the condition, care issues together,” said Mr training, consultancy, dementia SERVING YOU FOR THE NEXT
Learning Network. Slowly but which increases social stigma Stephen Chan, Director of Care research and innovation. 30 YEARS, AND BEYOND
surely, ADA expanded its key about dementia rather than Even with the change of name, Services. Dementia Singapore’s With a new corporate name and
pillars and offerings, introducing reduces it. Lastly, we also aimed our vision remains the same: newly integrated Care Services In the coming months, Dementia identity, as well as improved
training and consultancy, caregiver to drop the use of the word A Dementia-Inclusive Society. department oversees all centre- Singapore also aims to step up its strategic goals, the road ahead
support and advocacy of the “association”, as our organisation As such, Dementia Singapore based dementia care for people advocacy efforts, as well as build for Dementia Singapore is rife
dementia cause in Singapore. makes its official transition in will continue to provide various living with dementia, home- a virtual community of people with opportunity and potential.
September 2021 from a Society programmes, services and based support and respite care living with dementia, caregivers
Today, we run four New Horizon to a Company Limited by operations for our clients with for caregivers, as well as other and care partners, and interested We hope to continue being your
daycare centres, two Family of Guarantee. dementia and their caregivers. caregiver support services. members of the public. The latter trusted dementia care partner
Wisdom enrichment centres, and is known as CARA, a pioneering throughout this journey – whether
multiple other programmes and Today, we are proud to announce “Lessons learned from the past 31 Apart from the new organisation Dementia Membership you are a person with dementia,
services for people with dementia, ADA’s newly rebranded identity – years serve as a reminder of why name, facilities such as our New Programme held over a mobile caregiver, family member,
caregivers, professionals and the Dementia Singapore. innovation and reimagination Horizon Centres and Family application. professional healthcare worker,
public. are important. For instance, the of Wisdom centres will remain or simply someone interested in
A NEW BEGINNING COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the same. However, Dementia “To effectively champion the dementia. Together, we can build
“The secret of change As Dementia Singapore, we do our need for digital innovation, Singapore is also looking to dementia cause, we have learned a Dementia-Inclusive Society, one
not forget all the work that was while emergent healthcare streamline our portfolio of that it is only right that we ally at a time.
is to focus all of done before. The heart, soul and demands led to the creation programmes and services, to engage and involve persons
faces behind the organisation of new programmes like Post offer a better client experience with dementia and caregivers
your energy, not on remain the same, and the love, Diagnostic Support, which was for our persons with dementia themselves, as they have the Check out the inner workings
fighting the old, but support and care we provide
to the dementia community is
launched in September 2020,”
said Mr Jason Foo, CEO of
and their families. This may
include expiring outdated
lived experience, wisdom and
opinions to share with the
of our new logo on page 6, or
read about our exciting celebrity
on building the new.” constantly improving. Dementia Singapore. programmes, introducing new community; this leads to the Brand Ambassadors on page 15.
4 Voice OF Dementia Voice OF Dementia 5
Behind the Logo
T
he rebranding exercise for Dementia
Singapore was spearheaded by branding
agency, Activiste. “In designing the new
identity for Dementia Singapore, we
wanted to create a multi-faceted and versatile
symbol which would send a strong signal of how
the organisation would lead in making Singapore a
dementia-inclusive society,” said Activiste CEO, Ms
Kim Faulkner.
The Dementia Singapore logo consists of two
distinct colours:
Purple is the universal colour that represents
Alzheimer’s disease and dementia around the
world. Many associations and organisations
dealing with dementia have used the colour to
show that it is a pervasive, spectrum disorder.
Yellow represents optimism and positivity,
providing an enlightened contrast to the
stigma and negativity often associated with the
condition.
The brain icon points to how dementia is ultimately
a condition of the brain, which impairs one’s ability
to remember, think, or make decisions that interfere
with doing everyday activities.
The logo also illustrates how Dementia Singapore
will collaborate with authorities, organisations,
and those impacted by dementia to strengthen
the overall effectiveness of the dementia care
ecosystem.
6 Voice OF Dementia
FEATURE
Dementia
Singapore’s
Refreshed
Look
T
o reflect our name change and new
branding, the exteriors of all our centres
and facilities received a facelift this July,
with the “Alzheimer’s Disease Association”
signages replaced with brand-new “Dementia
Singapore” ones, complete with fresh coats of our
sunshine yellow paint adorning our walls.
Here’s a glimpse of our refreshed New Horizon
Centres, Family of Wisdom centres and
Headquarters!
Note: This picture was taken before Covid-19
NVPC SENDS ITS BEST WISHES TO
DEMENTIA SINGAPORE AS YOU
EMBARK ON YOUR NEW CHAPTER!
As we work towards building a City of Good in
Singapore, we are heartened to see Dementia Singapore
serve as the national body for dementia. May your
positive impact multiply. We look forward to amplifying
your impact.
National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre (NVPC)
6 Eu Tong Sen St
#04-88 Clarke Quay Central
Singapore 059817
www.cityofgood.sg
8 Voice OF Dementia Voice OF Dementia 9
NCSS applauds Dementia Singapore’s dedication and
strong leadership in improving the lives of persons with
dementia and their caregivers for the past 30 years.
From the setting up of the first dementia day care centre to
the most recent programme to empower persons living with
dementia to be their own “voices of hope”, our partnership
in serving the dementia community has endured and
deepened over the years.
NCSS looks forward to many more years of collaboration
with Dementia Singapore to empower persons with
dementia and their caregivers and build a dementia
inclusive society in Singapore!
Ms Tan Li San
NCSS CEO
National Council of Social Service
170 Ghim Moh Road #01-02
Singapore 279621
Tel: 6210 2500
www.ncss.gov.sg
10 Voice OF Dementia Voice OF Dementia 11
Make My Workplace As you flip through these
pages, do know that
Dementia-Inclusive!
sweeping changes need not HOW THE TOOLKIT WORKS
By following the framework, a business is first able
be made overnight. Instead, to understand the gravity of dementia as an issue
we urge you to – at your own that needs to be addressed in the workplace; the
next steps it can take to make dementia-friendly
comfort – consider how far
I
changes to its business environment; and eventually
n our efforts to build a dementia-inclusive universities, the toolkit is designed to be applied your organisation wants to become dementia-inclusive where it can effectively
Singapore, Dementia Singapore launched a in the workplace at any scale, from an individual- render support to staff with dementia or who are
brand-new, awareness and do-it-yourself (DIY) or department-level to a whole-of-company go on this dementia journey. carers to loved ones with dementia.
resource for businesses on 6 September 2021. integration. The entry point and pace of
Dementia Singapore would also like to thank Musim
Titled “Business Toolkit for a Dementia-Inclusive “Businesses which strive to be inclusive often do your journey are dependent Mas Holdings, our long-term corporate partner who
Singapore”, it is Singapore’s first toolkit that not consider dementia as a diversity dimension on your organisation’s has supported us in this initiative.
offers a three-stage framework that can be easily since dementia is commonly perceived to be a
integrated into business practices. The three stages condition that impacts only the elderly and that values, priorities, and
are: Awareness, Friendliness, and Inclusiveness. persons with dementia cannot work. With the resources. But that first step
increasing prevalence of dementia in Singapore,
Authored by Mary-Ann Khoo, Consultant in including young onset dementia, a deeper is the most crucial.
the CEO Office at Dementia Singapore, and Dr understanding of the different types and stages – MR JASON FOO, CEO OF
Angeline Lim, a lecturer at one of Singapore’s top of dementia and how to interact with someone DEMENTIA SINGAPORE
with dementia becomes crucial as it could happen
to your employees, customers, suppliers, and you
want to be ready to support them,” said Dr Lim.
“There is still a lot of work that needs to be done
to raise the awareness of the abilities of persons
with dementia. Besides this being a DIY toolkit to
encourage businesses to embark on this dementia-
inclusive journey, this toolkit is also a means for us
to spark conversations and aid us in our work to
build a more dementia-inclusive Singapore,” said
Mary-Ann.
Stage 3: Inclusiveness
To become dementia-
To put together the toolkit, Dementia Singapore inclusive, businesses
engaged with local businesses to identify the gaps Stage 2: Friendliness take steps to support not
in their understanding of the condition and to As businesses take action to only customers, but also
determine how it can better present the relevant become dementia-friendly, employees impacted by
information in a clear and accessible manner. they ensure the physical dementia. This includes hiring
facilities and infrastructure and retaining employees
“We would also like to acknowledge the Agency of their store are adjusted to with dementia, and providing
for Integrated Care and Lien Foundation for their Stage 1: Awareness the needs of customers with support to employees who
At this stage, businesses dementia, and employees are carers to persons with
pioneering work in building dementia-friendly
are just becoming aware of are trained to support dementia. A truly inclusive
communities in Singapore. Without them, this dementia as an issue they need and handle the needs of business leaves no one
toolkit would not have been possible,” Mary-Ann to address. There is an interest customers with dementia. behind.
There is still a lot of work that added. to learn more about dementia.
needs to be done to raise the The toolkit includes personal experiences from
awareness of the abilities of persons living with dementia and their caregivers to
help companies better understand their challenges.
persons with dementia. It also contains case studies of other organisations
– MS MARY-ANN KHOO, CO-AUTHOR OF BUSINESS both locally and overseas that have successfully
TOOLKIT FOR A DEMENTIA-INCLUSIVE SINGAPORE transitioned to become dementia-friendly and
inclusive. Make the first step and download
the Business Toolkit now!
12 Voice OF Dementia Voice OF Dementia 13
Dementia Singapore
A pioneering Dementia Membership Programme by Dementia Singapore.
Officially launching by end of 2021.
Ambassadors
“It’s bravery. It’s a fight for a cause.”
CARA is a lifestyle and community mobile app that provides Dementia Singapore’s newest Ambassadors – local celebs Tay Ping Hui and
assurance through its unique identifier, offers tailored Munah Bagharib – speak out to rally support and kickstart public conversation.
rewards for those impacted by dementia, and aims to drive
social acceptance.
R
aise the topic of serve as Dementia Singapore
With CARA, personalised support is provided across the
dementia in a regular Ambassadors, lending their
journey of living with and caring for dementia, empowering
conversation and most powerful and influential voices to
members to lead meaningful and purposeful lives
people would talk about the dementia community to call
#DespiteDementia!
movies and TV shows that only for more support, increase public
portray Alzheimer’s disease, such awareness efforts and advocate
‘CARA SG’ is available for download on Google Play Store
as Grey’s Anatomy or the recent for change.
and Apple App Store.
2020 hit, The Father. But rarely
do people make the connection THE HEART BEHIND THE
Supported by:
that Alzheimer’s disease is a AMBASSADORS
part of dementia, the wider Being impacted by the condition
umbrella term for a multitude of – either through friends or family
neurodegenerative conditions. – was a large motivation for both
Munah and Ping Hui’s work with
For local actors Mr Tay Ping Dementia Singapore.
Hui and Ms Munah Bagharib –
Dementia Singapore’s first-ever, Citing people close to him who
brand-new Ambassadors and have dementia and having seen frontotemporal dementia. But
advocates for the dementia the effects of the condition on as we learned more about it
cause – this misconception was them, the dementia cause is a and what we each could do, my
exactly the case for them before personal one to Ping Hui. father, my brother Ziyad and I
they learned about the inner learned that it’s better to focus
workings of Dementia Singapore “I don’t think that anyone outside on supporting my mother and
and why we do what we do. can ever fully understand the keeping her happy,” said Munah.
mental and emotional challenges
“Like most people, my caregivers have to go through. It “It’s not easy and in fact, painful
At Good One Logistics, we are passionate understanding of dementia has
been practically focused on
can be a constant, prolonged and
painful journey with no definitive
to watch someone you love go
through it, but the focus is them.
about the dementia cause. We wish Dementia Alzheimer’s [disease]. Now I
understand that dementia itself
relief in sight. I would humbly
encourage them to stay hopeful,
It is their life, their health, their
happiness. I was really beaten
Singapore the very best as they continue to encompasses a wide range of
conditions,” said Ping Hui.
positive, have patience and more
importantly, do not hesitate to
down by the news initially but
realised that there is no point
seek help or assistance if they harping on being sad about it.
make a positive impact on the lives of those with “At first, I didn’t know enough to ever feel that it is too much to Yes, it is challenging, but the
have any kind of misconceptions handle, because that is where good way forward is to focus on
dementia in the next 30 years and more. or impressions. So, education
and awareness are key. There
Dementia Singapore can come
with a helping hand,” said Ping
how to assist your loved one from
here on,” the female comedian
needs to be more on-the-ground Hui. and stage actress added.
activities or more content about
dementia and the people who go For Munah, seeing her own Together with Dementia
through it, including caregivers,” mother get diagnosed in 2017 Singapore, the Ambassadors now
said Munah, who herself is a was also a hard-hitting reality, hope to raise more awareness
caregiver to her mother living albeit one that she and her family about dementia and its
with dementia. have learned to embrace. increasing prevalence, kickstart
Good One Logistics (S) Pte Ltd more public conversations, and
65 Ubi Road 1 Kicking off their official “It was difficult to accept and rally even the authorities to lend
#02-60 Oxley Bizhub ambassadorship in September understand the diagnosis and more support to the dementia
Singapore 408729 2021, Munah and Ping Hui will condition initially – which is community.
Tel: 6747 8318
www.goodone-logistics.com
14 Voice OF Dementia Voice OF Dementia 15
Practical and actionable resources also need to dementia and their caregivers in the form of more
be available on top of public education, as well as locations for treatment, therapy and day care. More
effective government interventions and support. funds can also be allocated to have more trained
professionals in those facilities, to relieve some of
“For those impacted with dementia, a society the financial and physical burdens that caregivers
that’s able to assist them when they need, would
be crucial. Just like those trained in first aid who
face daily,” said Ping Hui, pointing to the ideal future
of eldercare and dementia care for Singapore.
Eu Yan Sang Singapore sends its best wishes to
can help on-site, I think it would be extremely Dementia Singapore as they pursue to be the
beneficial if more of us learned what exactly to do Dementia Singapore sends a big “thank you!” to our
when someone impacted with dementia needs our Ambassadors as we welcome them to the family,
national body for dementia and do even more for
assistance,” said Munah. and we cannot wait to embark on this advocacy those impacted by the condition.
journey together with them.
“It is my hope the government will take the lead by
allocating more resources toward creating a more
comprehensive support structure for persons with
Watch this space for more Dementia Singapore
updates with our Ambassadors! We look forward to making big
strides with you and to build a
WHERE HAVE YOU SEEN THEM BEFORE? dementia-inclusive society.
TAY PING HUI Singapore/China
One of Singapore’s foremost talents widely co-production
recognised for his versatility, Tay Ping Hui, a Uni-Icon feature film
Entertainment artiste, catapulted to the top of the Meeting the Giant
industry’s A-list within a year of his television debut. in 2014, and will
Dominating our screens since the early 2000s, Ping be screenwriting
Hui has become a household name in Singapore and directing
and is well-known regionally with over 50 acting another feature film
accolades throughout his illustrious career. come 2022.
A winner in multiple acting and popularity awards, “I became a Dementia Singapore ambassador
Ping Hui recently branched out to China, appearing because I sincerely think that we need to have
in viewership-topping television dramas like The more conversations on this unavoidable topic.
Legend of the Condor Heroes (playing historical Conditions like heart disease, diabetes and
Mongolian mogul Genghis Khan, no less!), Handsome kidney disease have been much talked about,
Siblings and most recently, Heroes. but discussions on the matters of dementia are
still lacking in my eyes. I hope that by becoming
Never contented, Ping Hui has also set his sights on an ambassador, I can do my part to bring more
directing, having had his directorial debut with a people into this conversation.”
MUNAH BAGHARIB Now, catch her come full circle and dominating the
Before taking over YouTube space once again in the trendy talk show,
our Instagram Just Saying, or as the exuberating ambassador for
feeds, Munah popular lifestyle brands Zalora and Lazada.
lent herself to
the millennial “What Dementia Singapore stands for, is everything
generation’s I believe in and everything my family and I needed
boom of YouTube, when we were faced with dementia. I turned to
starring as one half their resources to learn more about how to move
of local comedy duo, forward, what help is out there, how to be a better
MunahHirziOfficial. Since caregiver. It made a HUGE difference. And it is an
then, the young celeb has dipped her toes into honour for me to be part of their cause because I
the world of acting, such as in Mediacorp’s 128 want to help raise awareness about what dementia
Circle: Shaking Legs and recent film Tiong Bahru is, evolve the stigma around it, and most of all be
Eu Yan Sang (S) Private Limited
Social Club, and theatre productions like Potong able to educate myself so that we can be there for
21 Tai Seng Drive
and Lost Cinema 20/20. those impacted by dementia.”
Singapore 535223
Tel: 1800 888 1879
www.euyansang.com.sg
16 Voice OF Dementia Voice OF Dementia 17
Fostering a
Spirit of Giving
C
omprising six team of virtual volunteerism and the
members, the pledging of donations via secure,
Fundraising and online platforms. But with new
Volunteer Management obstacles come an increased
(FRVM) team has been a key passion and resilience, and
support pillar of the organisation the past year has seen a great an agreed-upon initiative from
since its early years, tasked boom in Dementia Singapore’s start to finish – makes us feel
with engaging new and existing corporate partnerships and donor very accomplished that we have
donors and volunteers, and engagements thanks to the team. garnered support for the families
roping them in to partner impacted by dementia.
with Dementia Singapore and DESCRIBE A REGULAR
better support our dementia WORKDAY FOR YOURSELF. Towards the end of the workday,
community. This ranges from In a single workday, we we wind down by reaching out
hosting awareness-building communicate with a lot of to and re-engaging our active
talks at schools and workplaces, different people! From individual volunteers and donors. Building
to bigger and more impactful volunteers to corporate and sustaining meaningful
partnerships, such as a series of organisations, our main goal relationships is important to us
corporate social responsibility is to facilitate partnerships – and it is heartening to meet new
(CSR) activities to engage either through volunteering or people who are passionate about
our clients, collaborating on a fundraising. giving back to society!
fundraising campaign, or working
out a long-standing donor We start each week with a team WHAT OR WHO INSPIRED YOU
relationship. check-in, either in person or via TO GET INTO THIS LINE OF
a video call, just to say “hi!” to WORK?
Led by Mr Sherwan Sharip, each other and to plan out the Collectively, we are all driven
Director of FRVM, the team workflow for the week. Most of by meaningful work. All of us
serves as touchpoints between our work involves desk work, as come from different professional
Dementia Singapore clients and we respond to emails of enquiries backgrounds. We chose this path
external donors and volunteers, or follow-up with donors and to enable us to create a positive
such as students, passionate volunteers via text messages, social impact through the work
individuals and corporates. phone calls and virtual meetings. that we do.
MUS.za wishes Dementia Singapore the With the COVID-19 pandemic,
We also brainstorm ideas
together with our stakeholders By being close to the ground –
very best as it continues to make a positive FRVM also had their work cut
out for them. Activities and
on volunteering possibilities
or fundraising initiatives with
engaging with our clients with
dementia, caregivers, fellow
impact on the lives of those with dementia campaigns usually conducted
in person had to shift online,
individuals, schools or corporate
organisations.
programme co-ordinators
and the teams at the different
in the next 30 years and more. giving rise to the phenomenon
Reaching out to new donors and
care centres – as well as
interacting with individuals and
volunteers and following up on organisations looking to do good,
leads can also be challenging we pride ourselves in being the
at times, as it involves putting bridge that connects.
ourselves out there to educate
the community on dementia, WHAT MAKES YOU SMILE OR
shedding light on the needs of KEEPS YOU GOING?
our persons with dementia and Firstly, our clients! Spending time
caregivers, and encouraging at our New Horizon and Family
MUS.za people to join or invest in our of Wisdom centres keeps us
Raffles Hotel Arcade #01-01, dementia cause. But the end grounded and reminds us every
328 North Bridge Road, result – be it securing a donor day of why we do what we do,
Singapore 188719 or volunteer, or planning out and for whom.
Tel: 6261 4071
www.mus-za.com
@muszenithaffair @muszenithaffair
18 Voice OF Dementia Voice OF Dementia 19Secondly, each other! As a holistic FRVM team, WHAT ARE PEOPLE’S USUAL REACTIONS WHEN
we look to each other for support, inspiration and YOU TELL THEM WHAT YOUR JOB IS? I.E. AS A
motivation. FUNDRAISING EXECUTIVE, OR ONE WHO WORKS
WITH VOLUNTEERS ETC.
Last but not least, everyone at Dementia Singapore! Generally, people are supportive, as some of us
We are all working together towards a common were already either in the not-for-profit industry or
purpose. In saying that, our responsibilities are social service prior to joining Dementia Singapore.
interlinked. FRVM has shared goals, as with other There was the initial “Are you sure?” when a couple
functions in the organisation. The fact that we of us made the switch from the corporate world to
are all in this together and supporting each other social service. But as we moved along, this initial
makes us smile, very widely! expression from people has evolved to ones of
genuine motivation.
And if we may add, our Director’s sense of humour
too – which makes our challenges laughable at ANY OTHER COMMENTS YOU WOULD LIKE TO
times! ADD ABOUT YOURSELF?
This new normal, birthed by the COVID-19
pandemic, has distanced us physically. We enjoy
engaging with our volunteers and partners virtually.
Every discussion that succeeds in a tangible
initiative that brings benefits to our clients gives us
great satisfaction!
We also appreciate every interaction with our
co-workers at Dementia Singapore. Whether it’s a
simple “Hello!” or a chat when it’s possible to do
so in person, we hope to be able to get to know
everyone – to put a face to a name, to share ideas,
or even just to recommend a good coffee place!
At CYS Global Remit, we are passionate about
the dementia cause. We are committed to
supporting persons living with dementia and
Sian Heng Logistics sends its best wishes to their caregivers. We wish Dementia Singapore
Dementia Singapore as they pursue to be the all the best as they pursue to make a positive
national body for dementia and do even more for social impact in our society.
those impacted by the condition.
CYS Global Remit Pte Ltd
Sian Heng Logistics Pte Ltd 3 Shenton Way
65 Ubi Road 1 #02-04/05, Shenton House
#02-60 Oxley Bizhub Singapore 068805
Singapore 408729 Tel: 6226 2088
Tel: 6224 6789 Email: enquiry@cys.com.sg
www.sianheng.com.sg www.cys.com.sg
20 Voice OF Dementia Voice OF Dementia 21Launching on World Alzheimer’s Day
21 September 2021 At Trinity Cargo Link Pte Ltd, we are passionate about
the dementia cause and we would like to show our
strong support for persons living with dementia and
their caregivers.
Singapore’s first one-stop resource portal on dementia We wish Dementia Singapore the very best
as they pursue to be the national body
www.dementiahub.sg for dementia and do even more for those
impacted by the condition.
DementiaHub.SG is Singapore’s first one-stop resource portal that houses
the most relevant, comprehensive and up-to-date information on dementia. Experience the Difference Discover the Future
This knowledge hub serves as a key touchpoint for members of the FCL & LCL SPECIALIST EXPORT / IMPORT TO 200 PORTS
community and corporations, persons living with dementia, caregivers and
care professionals based on your needs. You can gain quick and easy access REACHING 1600 DESTINATIONS WORLDWIDE
to curated information and resources about dementia and be connected to
Air & Sea Freight LCL & FCL Reefer Hazardous Project Cargo Warehousing Breakbulk SCM
a network of support and services.
Trinity Cargo Link Pte Ltd ☎ : + 65 6749 8117 : enquiry@trinitycargolink.com : www.trinitycargolink.com
DementiaHub.SG is brought to you by:
Trinity Cargo Link Pte Ltd
988 Toa Payoh North #06-06
Singapore 319 002
Tel: 6749 8117
Fax: 6749 8616
Email: enquiry@trinitycargolink.com
www.trinitycargolink.com
22 Voice OF Dementia Voice OF Dementia 23Use the Appropriate TALKING ABOUT DEMENTIA
Dementia Language
Dementia is an umbrella term PREFERRED WORDS
used to describe symptoms
Dementia 失智症
of impairment in memory,
communication and thinking. Alzheimer’s Disease and other 阿兹海默症与其他类型失智症
Many of the words to avoid are forms of dementia 失智症的一种类
A
outdated and were used when A type of dementia 失智症的症状
merican author THE BIRTH OF THE DEMENTIA it was thought that symptoms Symptoms of dementia
Jessamyn West once LANGUAGE GUIDELINES presented were simply a normal
said, “A broken bone A big part of combatting part of ageing, rather than முதுமை மறதி Demensia
can heal, but the wound negative societal attitudes, caused by specific types of அல் சைமர் ந�ோய் மற்றும் Penyakit alzheimer dan bentuk lain
a word opens can fester forever.” destigmatising dementia, and disorders of the brain. பிறவகையான முதுமை மறதி demensia
Such is the power of words. creating a truly inclusive society ஒரு வகை முதுமைமறதி Sejenis demensia
is using the right language
When it comes to dementia, consistently when talking முதுமை அறிகுறிகள் Gejala demensia
the way we speak about the about dementia or people with
condition and those impacted by dementia. Recognising this,
it can have a lasting effect not Dementia Singapore released the Sometimes words can hurt, too. And
just on the person with dementia, Dementia Language Guidelines when they do, it’s more than just skin
but the way wider society in April 2020 – a guidebook of deep.
perceives the condition. words and phrases appropriate
and inappropriate to use when tongues were identified and TALKING ABOUT PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA
DEMENTIA STIGMA IN dealing with or speaking about discussed, as well as the context
SINGAPORE dementia. of when and where the terms Words such as ‘demented’, PREFERRED WORDS
In Singapore, a nationwide would normally be used. From ‘sufferer’ and ‘victim’ are
Person/People with dementia 失智症人士
survey conducted by Dementia Inspired by and adapted there, terms with negative demeaning and derogatory,
Singapore (formerly known as from Dementia Australia’s connotations or those which may contribute to the stigma Person/People living with dementia 被诊断失智症的人士
Alzheimer’s Disease Association) 2018 language guidelines, the perpetuate the dementia stigma associated with dementia and Person/People with a diagnosis of
and Singapore Management Guidelines lists out preferred were then labelled as those to place the condition before dementia
University, titled Remember. words and phrases, as well as avoid. the person. We should always
For.Me, found that dementia terms to avoid, applicable in remember to use words that நபர் அல் லது முதுமை Orang yang menghidapi demensia
stigma is still very pervasive and all situations. This ranges from WHAT CONSTITUTES maintain the dignity of the மறதிஉள் ளவர்கள் Orang yang hidup bersama
entrenched in our society. As casual conversations to social ‘APPROPRIATE LANGUAGE’? person, and that do not place நபர் அல் லது முதுமை demensia
a result of this, among persons media posts and publicity As part of Dementia Singapore’s judgements on the individual just மறதியுடன் வாழும் மக ்கள் Orang yang mempunyai diagnosis
with dementia interviewed, 3 in 4 materials relating to the nationwide campaign, because they have dementia. முதுமை மறதி ந�ோயைக்கண் demensia
felt rejection and loneliness, and dementia condition, persons with #DespiteDementia, the டறிந்த நபர ் / நபரக் ள்
more than 1 in 2 felt that others dementia and the wider dementia Guidebook was created with
acted as though they were less community the goal of enabling its readers
competent due to their condition. to see persons living with
To localise the Guidelines, dementia as more than their
Astoundingly, stigma exists even Dementia Singapore also condition, celebrating them
amongst those in the dementia
community: 30% of caregivers
collaborated with a network
of persons with dementia,
as unique individuals with the
right to live with dignity and
TALKING ABOUT THE IMPACT OF DEMENTIA
surveyed felt embarrassed while caregivers and volunteers from happiness in our community. As
The impact of dementia on PREFERRED WORDS
caring for their loved ones with various races and communities such, the appropriate language
each person living with the
dementia in public. to translate the Guidelines into recommended in the Guidelines Disabling 失去能力
condition varies from one person
Mandarin, Bahasa Melayu and is language that is respectful, Challenging 挑战性
to another. They will also relate
The need for more dementia Tamil. Formal and colloquial non-stigmatising, accurate,
differently at different times Life changing 生活转变
education and awareness was terms in the various mother empowering and inclusive.
of their diagnosis. While we Stressful 压力
also underlined in the survey with
need to be truthful and realistic
more than half of our general முடக்குகிறது
about the impact of dementia, Kurang keupayaan
public rating themselves as low
the words we use do not need சவால் மிக்க து Cabaran
in dementia knowledge, as well
For more information or to download to be negative, pessimistic or வாழ் கக
் ை மாறுகிறது
as indicating discomfort when Pertukaran cara hidup
disempowering.
interacting with persons with the full Guidelines, scan the QR code: மன அழுத்தம் தரக்கூடியது Tekanan
dementia.
24 Voice OF Dementia Voice OF Dementia 25Champion for Us!
O
ver the years,
Dementia Singapore
has made a significant
impact on persons
living with dementia and their
caregivers. We enable persons
Congratulations to Alzheimer’s with dementia to live dignified
Disease Association (ADA) on lives and support and empower
the rebranding to Dementia their families through their
caregiving journey. In addition,
Singapore! Your organisation we provide subsidies for those
has always played an important who cannot keep up with the
heavy cost of care.
part in our community, reducing
stigma by increasing awareness With your help, we can do more
and understanding of dementia for those impacted by this
condition and make a difference
through various channels. to the dementia community.
Every donation counts and
will go a long way in helping
Having partnered with us provide much comfort and
encouragement to those in
ADA for the past 2 years, need.
BS Bendemeer Pte Ltd
looks forward to making
big strides with you, and
to build a dementia-
inclusive society.
Find out ways to champion for us at dementia.org.sg/donate
BS Bendemeer Pte Ltd You can also send us an email at giving@dementia.org.sg
20 Bendemeer Road
#03-13/14 BS Bendemeer Centre
Singapore 339914
Tel: 6534 0123 This page contains of photographs taken before the COVID-19 pandemic.
www.bscapital.com.sg
26 Voice OF Dementia Voice OF Dementia 27Join us in our fight against dementia!
DONATE SCAN TO DONATE
dementia.org.sg/donate
VOLUNTEER
dementia.org.sg/volunteer
SIGN UP FOR VOICE OF DEMENTIA (ONLINE)
dementia.org.sg/vod
Dementia Singapore
Dementia Singapore was formed in 1990 as the ‘Alzheimer’s Disease Association’ to better serve Singapore’s growing
dementia community, increase awareness about dementia, and reduce the stigma surrounding the condition.
As Singapore’s leading Social Service Agency (SSA) in specialised dementia care, Dementia Singapore aims to
advocate for the needs of people living with dementia and their families; empower the community through capability-
building, knowledge and consultancy; and deliver quality, person-centred care innovations.
Dementia Helpline Family of Wisdom (Tiong Bahru) New Horizon Centre (Tampines)
6377 0700 298 Tiong Bahru Road, #10-05, Blk 362 Tampines Street 34, #01-377,
Monday - Friday: 9.00am – 6.00pm Central Plaza, Singapore 520362
Singapore 168730 Monday – Friday: 7.30am – 6.30pm
Monday – Friday: 8.30am – 5.30pm
Headquarters New Horizon Centre (Toa Payoh)
Caregiver Support Services New Horizon Centre (Bukit Batok) Blk 157 Toa Payoh Lorong 1, #01-1195,
Dementia Singapore Academy Blk 511 Bukit Batok Street 52, #01-211, Singapore 310157
Family of Wisdom (Bendemeer) Singapore 650511 Monday – Friday: 7.30am – 6.30pm
20 Bendemeer Road, #01-02, Monday – Friday: 7.30am – 6.30pm
BS Bendemeer Centre,
Singapore 339914 New Horizon Centre (Jurong Point)
Monday – Friday: 9.00am – 6.00pm 1 Jurong West Central 2, #04-04,
Jurong Point Shopping Centre,
Singapore 648886
Monday – Friday: 7.30am – 6.30pm
DEMENTIA IN NUMBERS
Almost
1 in 4 8 out of 10 35% of caregivers
people think there of the general public globally have hidden
is nothing we can are concerned about the diagnosis of a
do to prevent developing dementia person with dementia.
dementia at some point
Source: World Alzheimer Report 2019
Editorial Team
Jason Foo MANAGING EDITOR Stanley Ho EDITOR Hilary Hoe
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
CONTRIBUTORS Kong Qian Ru, Tanya Pillay, Thanveer Ali, Joann Chia PRODUCTION Extent Communications
20 Bendemeer Road, #01-02, BS Bendemeer Centre, Singapore 339914
info@dementia.org.sg 6377 0700
dementia.org.sg
Find us @DementiaSingaporeYou can also read
