KTPH@Home brings care to patients in the comfort of their homes while maintaining the same standards of medical attention
Senior Staff Nurse Nazrina switched from being a prison officer to a nurse for a more impactful
KTPH’s Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetics
Surgery
36 5 THINGS ABOUT…
Driving Safely for Seniors
Balancing road safety with sensitivity and understanding with our seniors
38 DAILY DOSE
Are You ‘Stuck’?
Understand constipation to relieve your worries
40 MAKAN TIME
Wholegrain Mee Siam Goreng with King Prawn
A healthy one-dish hawker fare that’s easily prepared at home
42 FIT & FAB
Heart Truths: Debunking Exercise Myths
Regular exercise is good for heart health, here’s what you need to know!
WScan here to subscribe to aha online for regular updates and stories from KTPH and YCH!
hy aha?
The name aha holds much significance for us at KTPH and YCH. In part, it is a nod to our history; it also stands for ‘Advocates for Health in Action’. Through these pages, we hope to empower you to take charge of your own health and discover those ‘aha!’ moments that lead to a healthier, happier you.
PUBLISHER
We are a network of medical institutions and health facilities of the National Healthcare Group in the north of Singapore. We care for patients in Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Yishun Community Hospital, and our community extension, Admiralty Medical Centre.
EDITORIAL TEAM
Nur Amalina
Hannah Wong
Jack Lau
Sharon Ng
Albert Foo
EDITORIAL COMMITTEE
The editorial committee — made up of clinical, nursing, allied health, and administrative heads of department — advises aha’s direction.
aha is the official quarterly publication of Khoo Teck Puat Hospital (Co. Reg. No. 200717564H) and is produced by ThinkFarm Pte Ltd. All rights to this publication are reserved and no part may be reproduced without the express written consent of the publishers. While every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this newsletter is accurate and up to date, the editorial team will not be responsible for errors due to information received. Opinions expressed are that of the writers and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of the publishers. Printed by Mainland Press Pte Ltd. MCI (P) 054/06/2024
Honoured for going above and beyond
Every year, the Healthcare Humanity Awards –established as a legacy of the 2003 SARS Courage Awards – celebrate healthcare workers who demonstrate extraordinary compassion, courage, and selflessness in their service.
This year, KTPH is proud to congratulate Ong Shu Fen, Advanced Practice Nurse and Nurse CIinician, for winning the Healthcare Humanity Awards 2024’s Individual Award (Compassion Category).
As part of the KTPH@Home team (flip to page 16 to read more!), Shu Fen sees many patients with complex medical conditions and social needs beyond the hospital. Beyond her clinical duties caring
for patients with complex medical conditions, Shu Fen has made significant impacts through personal initiatives. In one touching instance, she provided crucial emotional support to a bereaved elderly widow, helping her reconnect with the community. As a board member of a children’s charity organisation, she has also spearheaded various community projects, including helping underprivileged families obtain essential furniture and supporting stay-at-home mothers in starting home businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Shu Fen’s compassionate and empathetic nature is also seen in her efforts to create a nurturing work environment for
the junior nurses she mentors. Shu Fen embodies the true spirit of healthcare, combining professional excellence with genuine compassion.
Recognising our Community Care heroes
We continued our track record in delivering community care excellence at this year’s Community Care Excellence Awards (CCEA). Introduced by the Agency for Integrated Care in 2014, these awards recognise individuals and project teams for exemplary service and commitment to quality care in the community care setting.
On 2 October, seven Yishun Community Hospital staff were commended for their sustained efforts in consistently achieving quality care. Winning a Gold CCEA was Senior Staff Nurse Nur Hannah Ting Siew Sie Binti Abdullah, Ward D98. She was lauded for going the extra mile for patients and colleagues in need. Well-regarded as a mentor for new nurses, Hannah is also known for contributing
to improvement initiatives that improve patient care and daily work processes. Individual Silver Awards were also given to Dr Caroline Lim,
Dr Aye Khine Thwin, Dr Andrea Kwa, Staff Nurse Emelia Chan, Dr Thet Htet Zaw, and Senior Staff Nurse Edwin Yen.
Our CCEA Gold Winner Nur Hannah (sixth from left) was flanked by our Community Care Manpower Development Awards winners and accompanied by CEO Prof Chua Hong Choon, YCH Head of Nursing Ms Yvonne Tan, CN Ms Shirley Heng, CHRO Cynthia Lee and supporters at their win
Stepping into wellness!
We celebrated the successful conclusion of our Wellness Festival at KTPH Learning Centre, marking unprecedented staff engagement in health initiatives. The three-month festival – part of NHG’s cluster-wide well-being activities – achieved a positive participation rate with staff collectively logging over 1.79 billion steps.
Top performers in the Fitness Challenge were recognised across three categories, with Renal Centre, Food Services, and Major Operating Theatre clinching first prizes in their respective categories.
Organised jointly by the Well-Being and Human Resource teams and external partners, the closing event featured diverse wellness booths, including the
ranged from sound bath sessions to sports massages and nutritional education.
Winning bronze for championing mental health
We were awarded bronze at the Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Council’s Project Empowerment event for our comprehensive mental well-being programme. The initiative, ‘A Systematic Pivot to Enhanced Emphasis on Mental Well-being in KTPH & YCH’, focuses on creating a supportive work environment for healthcare staff.
The programme comprises four key pillars, awareness through monthly workshops and online resources, knowledge enhancement via the Emotional Literacy First Aid e-learning programme, support systems including Peers Around Lending Support and Safe Space platforms, and continuous improvement measures.
CHRO Cynthia Lee received the award that recognises the
resources and support platforms among employees.
Well-Being team’s successful efforts in promoting mental health
The team from Major Operating Theatre receiving their prize for clocking in the most number of steps!
The Alexandra Health Fund: A decade of making a difference
Alexandra Health Fund (AHF) marked its 10th anniversary with a celebration at York Hotel on 9 September. This was attended by past and present AHF Board members and KTPH and YCH senior management.
The Fund’s journey began with the Alexandra Health Endowment Fund (AHEF), which received substantial support from the estate of the late Tan Sri Khoo Teck Puat, including a $100 million donation in
December 2007 and an additional $25 million disbursed over five years from KTPH’s commencement of operations in 2010. In September 2014, AHF was incorporated as a Company Limited by Guarantee to take over the management of AHEF funds.
At the celebration, AHF Chairman, Mr Tan Boon Khai, presented appreciation gifts to distinguished guests Ms Jennie Chua, Mrs Mavis Oei
The AHF's mission is to enhance health and improve quality of life for our patients through:
• Education, research and innovation
• Community collaboration
• Financial assistance for those in need.
The objectives are to promote all medical and healthrelated services that are exclusively charitable and for the benefit of the Singapore community.
and Mr Tow Heng Tan, acknowledging their steadfast support. He noted that the AHF has been actively supporting numerous KTPH and YCH initiatives including patient assistance schemes, clinical research programmes, innovation funds, education programmes and community health projects - all aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery and improving quality of life for patients in our community.
MAKE A DONATION Donations are tax exempted and can be made via PayNow.
• Put DON followed by NRIC in the remarks
• UEN: 201427909W
The Alexandra Health Fund celebrates their 10th anniversary!
Let’s
hear it for our Patient Service Associates!
Our Patient Service Associates’ (PSA) valuable contributions were recognised on PSA Day 2024 on 15 November. The event was graced by Guest-of-Honour Senior Minister of State Dr Janil Puthucheary, who officiated the launch of the PSA Learning Academy. This new
academy will provide structured lifelong learning opportunities through customer service skills training, clinical knowledge development and accredited courses certified by ITE and NTUC Learning.
A highlight of the celebration was the presentation of a cheque
for $17,888.88 to All Saints Home CEO Mr Samuel Tan by CEO Prof Chua Hong Choon.
The amount was raised through a fundraising campaign by our PSAs, demonstrating their commitment to community care beyond their daily duties.
Raising awareness about familial hypercholesterolemia
Did you know that one in 140 or about 30,000 Singaporeans have an inherited gene mutation that causes them to develop very high LDL cholesterol levels? This genetic trait increases the risk of heart disease at a younger age than usual. This, known as familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), can even lead to high cholesterol in children. If uncontrolled, it can lead to a high risk of heart diseases, approximately 20 times more likely than a healthy person.
For several years now, KTPH has been advocating early FH screenings, diagnosis and treatment. It also runs research projects on the disease. This year, on 26 September, in conjunction with World Heart Day, KTPH held a FH Awareness Seminar. During the seminar, doctors and patients shared information, insights and experiences about FH and encouraged the importance of early health screening and genetic testing.
Our PSAs with GOH Senior Minister of State Dr Janil Puthucheary on PSA Day 2024
Taking a safety-first approach to achieve zero harm
Our inaugural Safety Day was held on 9 September as part of the annual Safety and Security Week. Themed ‘Safety First’, the day was aimed at boosting safety awareness and emergency response capabilities. Staff not only took part in games and activity booths but also learnt how to handle fire extinguishers and fire hose reels. Everyone also came together in a safety pledge to affirm their commitment to safety.
In the lead-up to Safety Day, the Safety Committee organised a series of drills and exercises
to refresh workplace safety knowledge and practise specific protocols for different emergencies. These simulations included a decontamination drill in response to a chemical emergency scenario, a fire drill, and a water disruption exercise. There was also an in-place protection drill where staff responded rapidly to news of imminent hazardous fumes, shut off all windows and sealed all door gaps. The action-packed event highlighted that everyone has a part to play in safety!
There were also educational booths set up to raise awareness and test staff on their workplace safety knowledge
Staff tried their hand at being firefighters for a minute - literally!
A joint celebration of vision and geriatric care
GOH Ms Carrie Tan, MP for Nee Soon GRC, and KTPH & YCH CEO Prof Chua Hong Choon
& fourth from
launched the AMD Week and Geriatric Health Carnival, with the leads of the organising committee - Dr Ng Chong Jin, Dr Boh Toon Li and Dr Lim Jing Wei from Geriatric Medicine and Dr Subramani Siddharth from OVS, along with Prof Vernon Yong, Medical Director, NHG Eye Institute
In a convergence of anniversaries, KTPH’s Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (OVS) and Geriatric Medicine (GRM) departments joined forces to celebrate their respective milestones. The event, which drew over 450 participants, marked the 20th anniversary of Awareness of Macular Diseases (AMD) Week and the 30th anniversary of GRM.
Under the theme ‘See Straight & Live Great,’ the Geriatric Health Carnival 2024 showcased the natural synergy between eye care and geriatric health. The event featured more than 20 interactive booths staffed by KTPH and National Healthcare Group teams, community partners, and sponsors. Seniors benefited from accessible
on-site health screenings and educational activities.
Over the past two decades, AMD Week has evolved beyond its initial focus on age-related macular degeneration to encompass other critical conditions such as diabetic maculopathy and myopic macular degeneration – all of which require early detection and treatment. This expanded scope reflects OVS’s commitment to comprehensive eye care education and prevention.
Meanwhile, GRM’s 30-year journey at KTPH has been marked by its dedication to holistic senior care. Through promoting proper nutrition, physical activity, and overall well-being, the department has consistently worked to enhance the
To encourage seniors to ‘See Straight & Live Great’, our OVS and GRM departments organised screenings for sight, memory and cognition
quality of life for elderly patients.
The joint celebration exemplified both departments’ shared mission of ‘adding years of healthy life’ to seniors’ lives.
(third
right)
Appreciating our valued healthcare educators!
Fifty-two outstanding healthcare educators were honoured at our 12th Teachers’ Appreciation Day on 30 October. During the ceremony at KTPH, Education Director A/Prof Yip Chee Chew encouraged educators to embrace artificial intelligence while maintaining core educational principles, opining: “Together, we can lead the way in preparing our students for the complexities of modern healthcare, blending new technology with rich educational theory.”
The event recognised educators from clinical, nursing, and allied health disciplines for their contributions to healthcare education.
Towards a healthier, greener future
We celebrated Clean & Green Singapore 2024 at the KTPH Learning Centre on 7 November, with interactive booths and activities promoting environmental consciousness.
The staff took part in sustainability-focused games, learned about organic vegetable growing through live demonstrations, and gained insights from clinicians about sustainable practices in clinical areas. Our Facilities Management partners also shared valuable information about energy-efficient lighting solutions.
A highlight of the event was the official handover of hospital beds to Tzu Chi Cambodia, witnessed by CEO Prof Chua Hong Choon and COO Joe Hau. This donation to rural Cambodia demonstrates our commitment to reducing waste while helping those in need.
As a 24/7 healthcare institution, we recognise our significant environmental impact. Through these initiatives and educational efforts,
we continue working towards reducing our environmental footprint, lowering operational costs, and contributing to better public health outcomes.
CEO Prof Chua Hong Choon and COO Joe Hau (fifth and eight from right) officialised the donation of hospital beds to rural Cambodia through Tzu Chi Cambodia, with Tzu Chi representatives and our Green & Sustainability Committee
Spreading stroke awareness to the community
Throughout October 2024, our Acute Stroke Unit nurses took stroke awareness directly to the heartlands, conducting five interactive ‘Let’s Talk About Stroke’ sessions in English and Mandarin.
Working with community partners St Luke’s ElderCare, TOUCH Community Services, and Goodlife Studio, the team reached over 200 residents across various locations. The sessions focused on stroke prevention, symptom recognition using the FAST (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 995) protocol, and the importance of early intervention.
Enthusiastic seniors actively participated in discussions and
‘Know
Your Meds’ for safety & proper recovery
Our pharmacy team celebrated Pharmacy Day 2024 in September with educational booths at the KTPH lobby, focusing on this year’s theme of ‘Know Your Meds.’ The interactive displays engaged staff and public visitors in fun games while teaching important lessons about medication management.
Participants learned about the differences between branded and
had lively question-and-answer segments. Through these engaging sessions, participants learned about modifiable risk factors and
gained crucial knowledge about recognising stroke symptoms –potentially life-saving information for our community.
generic medicines, proper storage techniques, and correct methods for organising medications in pill boxes. Through these activities, our pharmacists emphasised crucial aspects of medication safety including how to read medication labels, understand proper storage conditions, and follow correct
dosing instructions. The hands-on approach made learning about medication management engaging and memorable for all participants. These educational efforts reflect our pharmacy team’s commitment to ensuring our community understands their medications better and uses them safely.
Food safety & infection control go hand in glove!
KTPH’s Infection Control team, in collaboration with Food Services, hosted their annual Infection Control Fair at the KTPH Lobby on 4 October, focusing on food safety and prevention of food-borne diseases.
To drive educational efforts that help ensure our community understands the importance of proper food handling and infection
prevention in daily life, they organised a fun and interactive exhibition for staff and public visitors. Through virtual tours, participants observed our kitchen team’s safe food preparation practices, including the proper use of colour-coded chopping boards. Another booth
demonstrated food hygiene best practices for refrigerator, sink, and cupboard storage.
A popular feature was the hand hygiene station, where participants tested their seven-step hand sanitisation technique under UV light to verify thorough coverage.
Caring for our mental health
The KTPH Psychological Medicine department marked World Mental Health Day on 10 October with a diverse array of engaging activities at both the KTPH Lobby and Learning Centre.
A highlight was the ‘Experiencing Alzheimer’s’ Workshop, where participants entered a specially designed room that simulated sensory overload, helping them better understand and empathise with patients’ experiences. Other workshops included aromatherapy with flower arrangement, music therapy, journalling, and paper mosaic art – activities that all focused on different aspects of mental wellness.
The event also emphasised the physical dimension of mental health
through activities like non-contact boxing and pilates. Meanwhile, interactive booths in the KTPH Lobby, managed in collaboration with our partners, provided valuable mental
health resources and information to staff and public visitors, and highlighted the many facets of mental well-being and ways to maintain it.
A carnival of care for our Allied Health and Pharmacy team!
F
rom diagnosis to rehabilitation, allied health and pharmacy professionals are essential partners in every patient’s healthcare journey. On 19 September, we celebrated these vital team members at our annual Allied Health and Pharmacy (AH&P) Day,
recognising the contributions of staff across 14 departments.
At the AH&P Awards Ceremony, outstanding staff were recognised for their impact on our community, with the awards given out by CEO Prof Chua Hong Choon, COO Joe Hau and AH&P Director Teresa Foong.
The Learning Centre Foyer transformed into a vibrant carnival under this year’s theme ‘Celebrate, Inspire, Appreciate & Connect.’ Staff enjoyed food and game booths, live music performances, and shared heartfelt message dedications with colleagues.
Our Allied Health and Pharmacy team together with senior management
Shedding light on the world of radiology
On 13 November, KTPH’s Diagnostic Radiology team marked World Radiography Day with a public exhibition that illuminated both the history and future of medical imaging. The event showcased the evolution of radiographic technology since Wilhelm Conrad Rontgen’s groundbreaking X-ray discovery in 1895.
Visitors got hands-on experience with interactive
elements, including a challenging quiz where participants tested their knowledge of medical imaging. The exhibition highlighted how our radiographers utilise advanced imaging technologies like X-ray, MRI, and CT scanners to support patient care. Their expertise in operating these complex systems plays a vital role in detecting and monitoring various health conditions, contributing to enhanced healthcare outcomes.
…in The Straits Times
Informed consent can be overwhelming, especially in complex surgeries like breast reconstruction. This process is even harder under the emotional weight of a breast cancer diagnosis, which can make retaining crucial details challenging. To address this, a team of doctors and researchers from KTPH, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University and tech company MAGES Studio developed REBORN - a digital app that uses 3D models and augmented reality to enhance patient understanding and support informed decisionmaking. The app has been integrated into routine clinical use since July 2024 by breast and plastic surgeons at KTPH and Tan Tock Seng Hospital with positive results.
Read more about the innovation in this Straits Times feature and flip to page 32 to read more under Spotlight!
…in CNA
In this CNA TODAY photo feature, Assistant Nurse Clinician Hazeena Banu Shaik Alaudeen and Senior Staff Nurse Daniel Sii share their heartfelt insights as they navigate the profound journey of palliative care. Their commitment to fostering meaningful connections during life’s final moments is truly inspiring. Hazeena emphasises the significance of not only alleviating physical pain but also providing emotional support to patients and their families, ensuring that they feel understood and cared for. Daniel complements this approach by building strong relationships, which help to create a comforting environment for those facing the end of life and their loved ones.
…on KTPH Instagram
Is someone you know experiencing memory challenges? In this video, Dr Lim Jing Wei, a consultant from the Department of Geriatric Medicine at KTPH explains the importance of cognitive assessments. These assessments serve as essential tools that can uncover early signs of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. While they cannot provide a definitive diagnosis on their own, they help identify specific areas that may warrant further investigation.
Scan the QR code below to learn more about these assessments.
…on KTPH Facebook
Our prosthetists and orthotists are more than experts; they are creators of hope and independence. Every day, they combine science, compassion, and creativity to empower lives and inspire smiles. In conjunction with International Prosthetics and Orthotics Day, we honoured these dedicated professionals whose work brings comfort, mobility, and new possibilities to patients. Let’s take a moment to appreciate what our staff Claudia Chua has to say about her role as a prosthetist and orthotist.
Scan the QR code below to read her reflection.
Learn more about their experiences here.
Photo: Raj Nadarajan
Photo: Desmond Wee /
From milestones to everyday moments, connect with us online for regular updates, inspiring achievements and a touch of fun.
When we think of hospital care, we often picture ward beds, restricted visiting hours, and regular nurse and doctor rounds. What if care could happen in the comfort of your home? KTPH @Home has made this a reality, transforming how we experience healthcare while maintaining the same standards of medical attention.
Paul winces slightly as the nurse draws blood from his arm, but his discomfort quickly turns to a smile.
“At least I can have the blood test done in the comfort of my home,” he quips. The 45-year-old logistics manager is recovering from cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection that typically requires hospital admission for intravenous antibiotics. But instead of being in a hospital ward, he’s sitting in his living room armchair, watching his favourite television show.
A day later, Paul consults with his physician to follow up on his blood test results and progress. Through a mobile phone propped on a side table, his doctor observes that the wound is healing well and that he will only need to continue his course of antibiotics for three more days. During this time, he
continues to monitor and record his vital signs using portable monitoring equipment and enter them directly into a specially developed app.
Meanwhile, in another part of Yishun, 82-year-old Mdm Chen receives more frequent in-person visits and support for her pneumonia. Almost daily, a nurse visits the home to check Mdm Chen’s vital signs and, where needed, facilitates a video consultation with her doctor.
Over these visits, Mdm Chen’s daughter also watches attentively as the nurse demonstrates how to adjust her mother’s position to make breathing easier, the proper techniques for using the pulse oximeter and how to record readings in a logbook.
“Mama prefers more traditional methods,” her daughter explains. “She’s more comfortable when
someone visits her in person, and we need more hands-on guidance with her care.” A team of nurses visit Mdm Chen more frequently to assess her condition.
To enhance the management of her medications, pharmacists provide valuable guidance to the team regarding Mdm Chen’s medication reconciliation. This essential process is particularly beneficial for patients with multiple conditions and prescriptions, ensuring medication lists are accurate and current. It prevents omissions, duplications, dosing errors, and potential drug interactions.
This seamless delivery of hospital-level care at home is made possible by KTPH@Home, an initiative that began in 2019 to help suitable patients receive acute medical care in their familiar home environment. What started
as a programme primarily serving elderly patients has evolved into a comprehensive care model that spans different age groups and medical conditions. Supporting this effort is a multidisciplinary initiative that involves a team dedicated to integrated care, from physicians and home care nurses to patient care officers and allied health professionals.
CARE THAT ADAPTS TO YOU
“Healthcare doesn’t always need to happen within hospital walls,” explains Dr Boh Toon Li, Consultant,
Geriatric Medicine. “Many patients can receive the same level of care at home, where they’re more comfortable and can continue their daily routines.”
The programme has grown significantly since its inception, and now cares for patients with various conditions including infections requiring intravenous antibiotics such as pneumonia, and post-surgical recovery.
Teams of doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals work together to provide comprehensive care through a carefully balanced combination of home visits and
virtual consultations. A typical care journey might include nurse visits or telemedicine consultations, daily monitoring through visits or calls, and specialised support from allied health professionals where needed.
What makes this care approach particularly effective is how it can transform patients and their caregivers into more active participants in the recovery process. The care team supports patients and caregivers in learning to monitor vital signs, recognise concerning symptoms, and understand medication schedules –skills that prove valuable long after
Senior Staff Nurse Lin Chating prepares the intravenous drip for her patient, so that antibiotics can be administered in the comfort of the home
“Healthcare doesn’t always need to happen within hospital walls, many patients can receive the same level of care at home, where they’re more comfortable and can continue their daily routines.”
Dr Boh Toon Li Consultant, Geriatric Medicine, KTPH
the acute care episode ends.
Nurse Manager Low Sing Ee points out that the home visits not only benefit the patient. “At home, we can see how patients function and consider all the psychosocial factors. This allows us to assess patients more accurately,” she says. As nurses visit, they can assess the home setting and learn more about a patient’s daily routine, living environment, and support system that might be missed in a hospital setting. This enables the care team to develop more effective and personalised care plans.
This approach has longerterm benefits. “By empowering patients and caregivers to be more involved in care, we hope to reduce unnecessary emergency department visits and achieve better outcomes in the long run,” says Sing Ee. Many patients grow more confident in managing their health conditions at home, armed with new knowledge and skills.
The programme has also been tailored to address varying needs and circumstances. “We recognise that different patients have different needs and comfort levels with technology,” says Dr Boh, “Some patients, particularly our younger ones who are more tech-savvy, do very well with virtual consultations and digital monitoring. Others, especially our elderly patients with multiple health conditions, benefit from more frequent face-to-face interactions.”
This insight led to the development of two distinct care approaches. The ‘high tech’ category leverages technology for remote monitoring and virtual
Senior Staff Nurse Lu Jialing educates her patient by explaining more about the medicine that needs to be taken
check-ins, ideal for independent patients comfortable with digital tools. These patients use a health monitoring app to log and transmit their vital signs, have video consultations with doctors, and receive care instructions through their devices.
Conversely, the ‘high touch’ track provides more intensive in-person support, with regular home visits from the care team. This suits patients who are less comfortable with technology or those who have more complex medical conditions and require more intensive monitoring.
BUILDING A BRIDGE TO RIGHT-SITED CARE
This transformation in healthcare delivery aligns with Singapore’s national drive to bring care beyond hospital walls and closer to home.
From April to September 2024, KTPH@Home has admitted over 450 patients with an average length of stay of around 4 days. This has resulted in a total of 1,850 bed days saved! This has reduced the strain on hospital resources while maintaining high standards of care, with many appreciating the convenience and comfort of recovering at home.
Before leaving for their KTPH @Home rounds, nurses like Senior Staff Nurse Xiao Xiong attentively pack the necessary items sufficient for the day’s visits
By enabling patients to receive acute care at home, the programme helps optimise hospital resources while making healthcare more accessible and affordable.
Since April 2024, the programme has also been recognised as a mainstream care model by the Ministry of Health. This means patients can now use their MediShield
Life and MediSave to pay for homebased hospital care, making it more financially accessible to those who need it. “This is a game-changer for many patients,” Sing Ee explains. Being on KTPH@Home generally costs less than a traditional hospital stay and being able to tap on MediShield Life and MediSave makes it even more affordable.
I like that I can have the blood test done in the comfort of my home. The care team is just a phone call away if I need them, and I know I’m getting the same quality of care as I would in the hospital.
paul tan ktph @Home patient
For ‘high touch’ patients, our nurses provide more in-person care
For patients like Paul, the benefits are clear. “Being able to recover at home means I can still have dinner with my family and sleep in my bed,” he reflects.
“The care team is just a phone call away if I need them, and I know I’m getting the same quality of care as I would in the hospital.”
As healthcare continues to evolve, KTPH@Home represents a glimpse into the future – where quality healthcare is not confined to hospital buildings but reaches right into our homes, making recovery more comfortable while keeping care accessible and sustainable for all.
BRINGING HEALTHCARE HOME
Patients should consult their doctors to determine their eligibility for KTPH@Home. Generally, eligible patients are those who are:
• Clinically stable
• Not anticipated to require intensive hospital care
• Independent or have adequate caregiving support at home
• Able to medicate independently
• Have access to telecommunication
(i.e. a stable internet connection at home)
Scan here to find out more
Back at the hospital, nurses run through medical updates with Dr Boh
Navigating OUR THOUGHTS
Our experts answer your frequently asked questions about your health, well-being and personal care needs.
In consultation with Isabel Yap, Clinical Psychologist, Psychology Service, KTPH
Help! I often feel paralysed by indecision and anxiety, and I feel like I am juggling too many concerns and responsibilities. It’s like a constant stream of competing debates in my head when I try to make a decision or mentally organise my tasks. What can I do to be calmer? Many of us juggle different roles and responsibilities and have many tasks competing for our attention and time. If you feel overwhelmed or unable to cope, you might like to try ‘mental decluttering’.
This is the practice of clearing your mind of excessive and unnecessary thoughts and worries so that you can be more present, mindful and focused on the thoughts that really matter and the activity that is immediately in front of you.
When we have a lot of thoughts going on in our minds at once, it can cram up our mental space, leaving us little room for clear decision-making and mental clarity.
Mental decluttering frees up space in your mind. It involves letting thoughts ‘come and go’, so you can focus on the thoughts that really matter.
Some ways to declutter mentally include:
1. Practising mindfulness. Be present in the moment, observe your mental clutter without judgement; acknowledge the thoughts and let them pass by without dwelling on them
2. Prioritising what is important for you and focus on the here and now
3. Writing down your tasks for the day – and setting a realistic limit for the number of tasks per period. This also removes the need to memorise them, thus reducing the mental load
I am always tired at the end of the day, but I cannot fall asleep because my mind is very restless and I tend to have negative thoughts. This excessive worrying is affecting my quality of sleep and my day-to-day mental
wellness. Help!
You might like to cultivate some mindful moments before you go to bed so that you can focus on the present in a more intentional and non-judgemental way. Take a few moments before bed to journal your thoughts, noting down things that you are grateful for and penning down your tasks for the next day so that you can put them out of your mind.
If you encounter negative thoughts, it is important that instead of avoiding them, you take steps to challenge them in a meaningful and solution-focused way. For one, identify what you are feeling – angry or anxious. Acknowledge this without criticism and observe how it affects you physically or behaviourally. There is no right or wrong way to feel. Emotions just are and they will come and go in their own time.
Address these thoughts with some questions to reframe them and put them into perspective.
You can:
IDENTIFY CONCRETE EVIDENCE : Are there objective facts that support or refute this thought?
CATEGORISE THE THOUGHT : Is it a helpful or unhelpful thought?
DEFUSE IT : Can you recognise the thought as just a thought?
4. Prioritising basic self-care. Eat well and healthily, exercise regularly and form good sleep habits
If you need a break, take it, but recognise that simply going on holiday or ‘switching off’ does not address your concerns. Instead of avoidance, it is more helpful to find meaningful ways to actively process and organise your thoughts so that you can build mental and emotional resilience to manage challenging times.
BE YOUR OWN CHEERLEADER : What would you say to a friend who is having the same thought?
LOOK AHEAD : How will you feel about this thought in 3, 6 or 12 months?
LOOK FOR AN ALTERNATIVE : Are there other ways of looking at the situation aside from what our negative thoughts are saying?
Unhelpful
Helpful
Avoid using extreme words when framing your thoughts such as ‘always’, ‘never’, ‘it is all because…’, ‘there is no other way’, ‘must’, or ‘should’ as we can often find a middle ground with most situations.
If you find that you become overwhelmed with negative thoughts, it can help to practice mindfulness, which means paying attention to the present and being aware of the ‘now’. You can also try breathing exercises, mindful eating or gratitude journalling. These acts can improve your ability to regulate your emotions, avoid fixating on the worst outcomes and improve your emotional resilience.
Making a deeper, more positive difference
Yearning to make a different impact on the lives of others, Nazrina Hoque made a mid-career switch after 10 years of working in the Singapore Prison Service. Now a Senior Staff Nurse at Yishun Community Hospital, she takes a human-centred approach to caring for her patients, particularly those with cognitive impairments such as dementia.
For almost 15 years now, Nazrina has worked in jobs that require her to look out for people. However, her two careers are on opposite sides of the spectrum.
Her first role as a prison officer was a rigid one, marked by strict discipline, routine, and a need for emotional restraint. Even though she often felt sympathy for the inmates, she could not offer much personalised support. “While I look out for their basic needs, I also have to keep a professional distance and appear firm and unemotional,” she explains, as any leniency could be misinterpreted or exploited in the high-risk environment. “A good shift to me is when nothing happens at the prison, with no commotion or fights,” she says.
This highly procedural environment was more predictable as it focused on order, security, and
“I believe in building trust with my patients with dementia as it helps me better engage them when they are anxious.”
nazrina
hoque
senior staff nurse, Ward D48, yishun community
hospital
administrative tasks. This left Nazrina little room to address the inmates’ underlying issues, such as addiction or family instability, and she was keenly aware of the inherent limitations within the system.
This left her yearning for a chance to make deeper connections with – and a more positive difference in –those around her.
BACK TO SCHOOL
Encouraged by her family, Nazrina
took up a career conversion programme to undertake nursing training at 32 years old. The Career Conversion Programme for Registered Nurses (Diploma) supports mid-career people in acquiring relevant training to be Registered Nurses.
The decision was not easy; as a mother with young children, balancing family life with rigorous full-time studies posed significant challenges. But the drive, timing and
opportunity were right, she shares. The accelerated course was very intensive – with a three-year curriculum condensed into two years. “We studied from 8am to 6pm every day and didn’t have long school breaks,” she shares. But as an adult learner, she found that her life experiences gave her the maturity and determination to persist, fully aware that the programme offered her a path to a more fulfilling career.
“It was definitely more tiring and quite difficult, but I took it seriously because I wanted to do well and knew it would be important in my new career.”
While evaluating her nursing specialty options, she considered paediatrics. But after a stint at Yishun Community Hospital (YCH), she realised her interest was in geriatric nursing, with a true calling in caring for seniors with dementia.
EVERY DAY IS EVENTFUL
Nazrina has found the last four years working in a dementia ward to be a big change of pace from her previous work.
Instead of hoping for a reportfree day without fights and incidents from the inmates, each day now presents different situations and challenges as well as joys. “Now, even if I end my day writing a report because of something like an
“The patients may not be able to communicate back, but they can hear me and see me. It feels right for me to talk to them, so they know what is going on.”
aggressive patient, I feel satisfied that I can handle it safely with no harm caused.”
Today, she still draws on some skillsets she honed as a prison officer. “Communication and engagement are still very important,” she says. Her background working with challenging demographics has prepared her well to handle the complexities of geriatric care, especially in understanding and managing behavioural issues. Nazrina’s adaptability and
sensitivity to individual needs, cultivated by years of observing and understanding different personalities, also allow her to adapt her approach to each patient.
In either job, it is essential to foster a bond with people, she explains. This is especially helpful when dealing with those experiencing high emotions, confusion and frustration. “I believe in building trust with my patients as it helps me better engage them when they are anxious,” she shares.
“It is also important to know that the so-called ‘difficult’ behaviours that come up in my patients with dementia are not within their control – it is the disease talking. And it makes them scared and agitated.”
She observes that many elderly patients, especially those with dementia, respond positively to consistent, empathetic care.
This has made her an advocate of the Humanitude approach and she is among a handful of YCH nurses trained in this. By focusing on the ‘human’ aspect of care, she strives to see things from her patients’ perspectives, imagining how she would want to be treated if she were in their position.
This approach has led to remarkable transformations, as some patients who were once withdrawn or agitated have become more engaged and
Apart from taking care of her patients’ medical needs, Nazrina also engages them with activities that lift their spirits and help with cognitive decline
communicative through her team’s specialised programmes.
Nazrina explains that Humanitude fosters a supportive environment that respects the patient’s personhood, helping them feel valued and understood. With non-verbal communication, gentle touch, eye contact, and attentive listening, she establishes a compassionate and respectful connection with her patients.
Even when tending to non-verbal, bedbound patients, Nazrina will chat softly with them, letting them know what she is doing. “Once, my junior asked me why I did that,” she recalls. “She said: ‘Don’t you feel like you’re just talking to yourself?’ And I said: ‘The patients may not be able to communicate back, but they can hear me and see me.’ It feels right for me to talk to them, so they know what is going on.”
This recognition that every person, regardless of their physical or mental condition, deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and maintains a patient’s emotional health, she adds.
Nazrina’s empathy also extends to caregivers, and she involves them and family members in caring for their loved ones. “I teach them to manage behavioural issues to reduce their stress while improving the patient’s quality of life.”
Looking at her career thus far, Nazrina feels deeply fulfilled in her current role. “Nursing provides me with the opportunity to make a tangible, positive impact,” she reflects. Now, she can advocate for her patients’ well-being, taking a more active role in their recovery and engagement. Her journey is one of growth and self-discovery, a transition from authority to advocacy, as she continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of her vulnerable patients and their families.
THE HUMANITUDE APPROACH
Humanitude is a caregiving philosophy and methodology developed in the 1980s by Yves Gineste and Rosette Marescotti. It emphasises empathy, dignity, and a human-centred approach to caring for individuals. In practice, Humanitude involves specific techniques such as looking into a patient’s eyes to establish trust, speaking in a calm and reassuring tone, using a supportive touch, and encouraging movement to maintain autonomy. This approach has been shown to reduce anxiety and agitation in dementia patients, improve their emotional well-being, and decrease the use of physical restraints and medications in care facilities.
Empowerment through movement
As an exercise trainer with Rehabilitation Services at KTPH, Stella Eng has made her love for exercise her career. With her straightforward nature and quiet determination, she motivates patients to pursue better physical health – and channels the same strengths to her passion for running and exercise.
As we travel the road ahead of us, we are presented with so many possibilities. Often, it is routine – filled with mundane tasks, pockets of excitement, and the occasional detour or U-turn. And sometimes, there are even obstacles, pitfalls and stops. Regardless of what comes our way, we continue to move forward, and with every stride, move closer to our goals.
Stella Eng, 55, has been propelled by this mindset throughout her career journey. Driven by consistent self-improvement and the resilience to overcome mental and external challenges, she has pushed herself to overcome moments of doubt and fatigue, cultivating a mindset that embraces setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth.
STEPPING INTO A NEW CAREER
Stella made her career switch from sales to becoming a physiotherapy assistant in 2003. She recalls that it was a steep learning curve. From knowing next to nothing about healthcare and physiotherapy, she has evolved and “learned tremendously” over the years. She credits much of her growth to the support from her supervisors at KTPH over the years. Since joining the organisation in 2008, Stella has worked her way up in the field, gaining additional certifications and training, including becoming a certified fitness instructor.
“This place has given me lots of opportunities,” she shares. “It is the best environment for learning and growing personally and professionally.” Having joined when
the former Alexandra Hospital first moved to Yishun, Stella was excited to be part of a new hospital. “I was very fortunate to become part of the first cardiac rehabilitation team,” she adds.
These days, as an exercise trainer, she works with KTPH’s physiotherapists as part of a team. She enjoys journeying with patients in their cardiac rehabilitation, especially when some learn to include more exercise in their lifestyle and become more empowered to do it on their own. It is not only about getting people to exercise because they are told to do so, she points out, “It is most useful when they do it because they want to – that is more sustainable. I can teach them the best form and technique, but ultimately they decide to take their health and fitness in their own hands.”
BREATH, MIND AND BODY
This strong sense of self-direction is evident in her passion for running and exercise. Stella has had a long-standing love for long-distance running, starting from a young age when she would participate in race events in primary and secondary school.
However, it was only when she was 34 that she decided to train for her first half-marathon. “It was always on my bucket list,” she says. Training on her own by ‘trial and error’ for six months, she completed her first 21km run with a commendable timing of 2 hours 9 minutes. Since then, she has competed in three full marathons, six half-marathons and the occasional 10km events like Run for Hope.
Even when she’s not training for a race, Stella still runs regularly as it is one of her favourite ways to work out. Apart from running, she is also an advocate for yoga, which she calls her first love. “It is not just about physical poses, but about the connection between the breath, mind and body,” she says, “It is all-rounded wellness.”
This interest in exercise that works the whole body and mind led her to participate in Hyrox, one of the world’s biggest competitive fitness races. Hyrox involves eight 1km runs interspersed with eight functional workout stations.
Learning about the race from a friend, Stella was intrigued by the mixed format of endurance and functional activity. “It looked interesting, so I decided to join and started training at the end
“When they do it because they want to – that is more sustainable. I can teach them the best form and technique, but ultimately they decide to take their health and fitness in their own hands.”
Stella Eng Exercise Trainer, Rehabilitation Services, KTPH
of January 2024 for the June 2024 race,” she shares. At her debut, she clocked 2 hours 46 minutes in her Hyrox women’s open.
More recently during her second race in September 2024, Stella learned from her previous experience and paced herself
better, finishing in 2 hours 6 minutes - a 40-minute improvement!
She found that training for this race has been very beneficial for her overall conditioning. “I could learn how to use my different energy systems as the eight workouts cover all components of fitness, from
(Above) Part of Stella’s job as an exercise trainer is to ensure her patients have proper form and technique during their rehabilitation sessions
strength and stamina to mobility. It has been particularly helpful in training her anaerobic endurance – due to high-intensity exercises such as burpees and wall balls. Compared to running, it is also more varied, Stella adds, “There is a sense of community because it is a very inclusive activity with spectators cheering you on.”
RUN YOUR OWN RACE
She finds that having pursuits that challenge her to do her personal best has helped her to achieve
“profoundness of experience.”
“You must harness your body and mind and it will lead you to where you want to go,” she says.
This perspective allows her to find joy in the process itself, to live life with zest, to explore the full depth of her potential and to enjoy a life without any regrets. In setting goals and working towards them, she has learnt to appreciate each step she makes, acknowledging that her success is not defined by age or the destination, but by the fulfilment she finds along the way.
(Left) Stella in the Hyrox women’s open race
RESHAPING THE FACE OF HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Combining reconstructive expertise with aesthetic capabilities, KTPH’s newly formed Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery team delivers comprehensive care that goes beyond physical reconstruction and aesthetics – by making form, function, and quality of life a priority.
For 42-year-old Ginny Chia, receiving a diagnosis of left breast cancer with multiple tumours sent her through a rollercoaster of emotions. As an active mother of two who enjoys yoga and rock climbing, the news that she needed a mastectomy raised immediate concerns about her future quality of life. But what could have been a lengthy and anxious process of consulting multiple specialists turned into a seamless experience that showcases KTPH’s integrated approach to care.
“Most patients express anxiety when they first come to us,” shares Dr Jolie Hwee, Consultant, General Surgery and Lead of KTPH Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (PRAS). “But what made
“Whether it’s reconstructive or aesthetic surgery, our goal is to help patients feel confident and comfortable in their skin. It’s not just about how you look – it’s about how you can feel confident again and function well in your daily life.”
To help with pigmentation and rejuvenation, Dr Hwee performs face laser therapy on her patient
Ginny’s experience different was how we could immediately connect her with our comprehensive breast reconstruction programme.”
A SYNERGISTIC APPROACH TO CARE
Right after her initial diagnosis, Ginny was referred to the PRAS team on the same day. While waiting
DR JOLIE HWEE CONSULTANT, GENERAL SURGERY AND LEAD, PLASTIC, RECONSTRUCTIVE AND AESTHETIC SURGERY, KTPH
for her appointment, she used an innovative tablet-based application, REBORN (Redefining Education for Breast Oncology Reconstruction), that walked her through different surgical options. “The visuals helped me understand the treatment options available and their respective pros and cons,” Ginny recalls. “It made my consultation much more meaningful as I could focus on clarifying my doubts.”
While the consultation time was reduced to just 20 to 30 minutes, Dr Hwee was still able to give Ginny a comprehensive understanding of her choices, even sharing 3D and augmented reality visuals to help her make her decisions.
“We help patients visualise complex procedures by using REBORN’s augmented reality and animations, such as how we can
REBORN enhances patient understanding and facilitates informed consent decisions when it comes to reconstructive surgery
use tissue from their abdomen to reconstruct a breast,” explains Dr Hwee.
For Ginny, this informative approach led to her choosing a free deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap reconstruction, which uses excess skin and fat from the abdomen to reconstruct the breast through microsurgery. “The visual tools, combined with the team’s expertise and support, helped me make informed decisions about my breast reconstruction,” she reflects. “Now I can focus on getting back to the activities I love with my family.”
Two months post-surgery, she’s already looking forward to resuming rock climbing with her children, with refreshed confidence.
A DEDICATED WOMEN’S HUB
The opening of the PRAS clinic in April 2024 marked a significant milestone in patient care. Located strategically adjacent to the Breast Centre clinic, the PRAS clinic creates a one-stop centre where patients can access multiple specialists in a single visit, enabling real-time collaboration between specialists and immediate patient consultations when needed.
“When patients come to us through the Breast Centre clinic and express interest in reconstruction, the nurses can walk over and arrange an immediate consultation,” shares Dr Keith Koh, Associate Consultant, PRAS. “This eliminates the need for multiple appointments and a longer waiting time.” This clinic space also houses the Breast Cancer Foundation Support Centre, a room with soothing decorations and calm tones, where patients can receive psychosocial support.
“Our goal is to achieve both optimal function and natural aesthetics. We’re not just changing how something looks; we’re helping restore how it works.”
DR KEITH KOH ASSOCIATE CONSULTANT, PLASTIC, RECONSTRUCTIVE AND AESTHETIC SURGERY, KTPH
BEYOND RECONSTRUCTION
Ginny’s experience underscores the PRAS team’s approach –restoring form and function to achieve overall physical and
psychological well-being.
Dr Koh points out that this newly formed team is an expansion of KTPH’s reconstructive surgery capabilities. While reconstruction still forms a large part of the work,
Dr Koh attentively closes an open wound
the team also offers a full spectrum of plastic surgery services, including aesthetic procedures.
This dedication to whole-ofperson care aligns with the ethos of plastic and reconstructive surgery. “Form usually follows function – but in plastic and reconstructive surgery, they are inseparable,” says Dr Koh. “Whether we’re reconstructing a breast after cancer or helping someone breathe better and look better through rhinoplasty, our goal is to achieve both optimal function and natural aesthetics. We’re not just changing how something looks; we’re helping restore how it works.”
In this way, plastic surgeons solve problems that other specialties might find challenging, whether it’s complex wound closure after cancer surgery or helping patients regain function after trauma.
“Sometimes, there’s a very fine line between reconstructive and aesthetic surgery,” Dr Koh explains. “For instance, when we help post-bariatric surgery patients with excess skin removal, we address medical issues like fungal infections and aesthetic concerns. Both are important to us,” he adds, “The goal is always to improve our patients’ quality of life.”
A GROWING TEAM WITH EXPANDING CAPABILITIES
With its expanded scope and services, the department has seen a steady increase in patients seeking aesthetic procedures. “Many patients are surprised to learn we offer these services,” Dr Hwee shares. “When they come in for reconstructive consultations and see our clinic wall showcasing our full range of services, they often ask about aesthetic procedures. The trust they’ve built
with us through their medical care naturally extends to considering us for aesthetic work.” This includes laser skin treatments and Botox injections, as well as body contouring procedures.
The PRAS team continues to expand and enhance its perioperative care capabilities today, with Dr Koh joining the team as a second surgeon and Dr Hwee undergoing further training in South Korea. Currently, the team’s core members of about eight include consultants, resident physicians, and medical officers, supplemented by visiting consultants.
“Being part of a restructured hospital gives us unique advantages,” Dr Hwee emphasises. “We have access to extensive resources and can collaborate easily with other specialists.” The team works closely with multiple departments, from Orthopaedic Surgery for limb salvage surgery, Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences for complex eyelid cases to Dental Surgery for jaw-related issues.
“We have immediate access to a wide range of specialists and resources,” Dr Hwee notes. This ensures that patients receive comprehensive care. All cases are also audited and discussed in monthly PRAS meetings across NHG hospitals, ensuring high standards of care and safety.
Dr Hwee envisions expanding the team’s services while maintaining their commitment to holistic patient care. “Whether it’s reconstructive or aesthetic surgery, our goal is to help patients feel confident and comfortable in their skin,” she says. “It’s not just about how you look –it’s about how you can feel confident again and function well in your daily life.”
SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE PLASTIC, RECONSTRUCTIVE AND AESTHETICS
SURGERY TEAM
Surgical procedures: Face
• Eyelid (Blepharoplasty)
• Nose (Rhinoplasty)
• Eyelid ptosis correction
• Face and neck lift
• Facial fat transfer for contouring and rejuvenation Body
• Tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty)
• Liposuction
• Thigh and gluteal lift Breast
• Breast lift (Mastopexy)
• Breast reduction (Reduction mammaplasty)
• Breast augmentation
• Male breast reduction (Gynaecomastia)
Non-surgical procedures:
• Advanced laser treatments for skin rejuvenation
• Injectable treatments like botulinum toxin, fillers and skin boosters
Scan QR code to read more about PRAS and their full list of services
5 Things About... DRIVING SAFELY FOR SENIORS
A series of car accidents both in Singapore and abroad involving older adults has sparked discussions about the need for more rigorous driving assessments for seniors — and whether there should be a maximum age for driving. The issue requires balancing road safety with sensitivity and understanding.
In consultation with Dr Claudia Koh, Senior Consultant, Geriatric Medicine
DRIVING HAS ITS BENEFITS
Driving offers many key benefits for seniors. It contributes to their sense of autonomy and dignity, as well as enables them to take on their daily lives with independence. Moreover, it helps maintain mental and emotional wellbeing as it helps them participate in the world. The act of driving is also helpful for cognition, as it requires attention, decision-making and coordination. Proactive self- and professional assessment is important to ensure that seniors can drive safely to keep themselves and others protected on the roads. 1
GO FOR A DRIVING ASSESSMENT
Anyone with a qualified driving licence aged 65 years and above must undergo a medical examination and be certified fit to drive by a Singapore-registered medical practitioner every three years.
For seniors with physical conditions (limb weakness and disability, amputation, spinal cord injury, and progressive neurological conditions) or cognitive impairment from brain injury, dementia and stroke, they may be referred to a driving assessment service such as the Driving Assessment and Rehabilitation Programme at Tan Tock Seng Hospital. An evaluation would be conducted on their physical, cognitive, and perceptual abilities, including reaction times and decision-making skills.
In addition, there is an on-road component with a specialised driving instructor, who will evaluate the senior’s driving in real traffic conditions, including the ability to follow traffic rules and how one would respond to various driving scenarios.
LOOK OUT FOR YOUR LOVED ONES
Family and friends play an important role in monitoring any changes in a senior’s ability to drive safely. Some signs to look out for include frequent near-misses and unexplained dents and scratches on the car. Keep an eye out for behavioural changes, such as driving too slowly, stopping abruptly, ignoring traffic signals, getting lost on familiar routes or mixing up locations. 4
Seniors themselves should carefully evaluate their own driving experiences and reflect honestly about whether age-related decline is affecting their ability to drive. 3
BE AWARE OF AGE-RELATED ROADBLOCKS
Several age-related conditions can impair a senior’s ability to drive safely. This can include vision impairments that make it difficult to see road signs, judge distances and drive at night. Hearing loss can limit the ability to detect horns, sirens and other sounds. Other physical conditions such as arthritis, sarcopenia and general frailty can also affect control of the car. More significantly, dementia or other neurodegenerative diseases can impair memory, judgment, planning, visuospatial abilities and reaction times.
5
APPROACH THE TOPIC WITH EMPATHY
Losing the ability to drive can be an upsetting realisation that can result in feelings of loss and isolation. When talking about it, be empathetic and offer support and alternatives that can help seniors maintain their independence as much as possible.
It is helpful to choose a calm moment in a private setting and not take a critical approach. Instead, bring up the topic by expressing concern and gently mentioning specific incidents that you have observed. It is important to frame the issue around safety and well-being.
Suggest alternative transportation options, such as family carpooling, public transport, or ride-sharing services. Offer encouragement to seek a professional opinion as a healthcare professional’s objective assessment can support the discussion.
ARE YOU ‘STUCK’?
Constipation refers to the irregular passing of hard stools or needing to strain to pass motion. Whether it is an occasional feeling of being ‘stuck’ or a persistent problem, understanding the condition can relieve your worries and let you get the necessary help.
IIn consultation with Dr Tay Poh Peng, Consultant, Geriatric Medicine, KTPH
f you are occasionally unable to move your bowels, you’re not alone. Constipation generally means passing fewer than three stools a week or having difficulty passing stools. It is a common condition that affects people of all ages and each person will have a different experience. While most experience it for a short duration, it can be a long-term condition that results in significant discomfort that impairs your quality of life.
A reliable symptom of constipation to look out for is the change in consistency of your stool. Stools should not be hard or lumpy and should be passed with ease. You should not need to strain or feel a sense of incomplete emptying.
WHAT’S THE ROOT OF YOUR IRREGULARITY?
In many cases, constipation is related to one’s diet, such as having insufficient fibre from fruits and vegetables and a lack of hydration. While too little fibre can disrupt the digestion process and cause you to have constipation, an abrupt increase in fibre can also do the same. Additionally, high-fat, low-fibre diets tend to result in irregular bowel movements.
Constipation can also be caused by:
Changes in daily routine or lifestyle, such as travelling or a change in eating habits
DIAGNOSING AND TREATING CONSTIPATION
If your constipation lasts more than two weeks, it is recommended to see your doctor for further evaluation. The treatment of constipation is usually to change your diet and lifestyle. It is advisable to gradually increase the daily intake of fibre and ensure adequate hydration. Exercise also plays an important role in preventing and treating constipation. If the above interventions are ineffective, medications such as oral or suppository laxatives may be required.
Immobility
Always ignoring the urge to pass stools
Medical conditions such as anxiety, depression or poor thyroid function
Medications such as opiate painkillers and supplements for iron and calcium
It is important to note that an early doctor review is recommended if you have any of the following:
In such cases, further evaluations including detailed history taking, physical examination, laboratory tests and imaging may be required. In some cases, you might need to undergo flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy. These procedures involve a long thin tube with a camera attached to the end that enables the specialist to visualise the bowel.
cut & keep
WHOLEGRAIN MEE SIAM GORENG WITH KING PRAWN
Turn a hawker favourite into a healthy, nutritious one-dish meal that you can easily whip up at home!
INGREDIENTS
Serves 4
• 200g dried wholegrain bee hoon
• 400g king prawns
• 40g firm beancurd, diced
• 40g tau pok (dried beancurd puff), diced
• 200g beansprouts, washed
• 30g preserved bean paste
• 80g chilli paste
• 2 tbsp oil
Optional garnish
• Calamansi lime
• Chopped chives
Recipe provided by Aizatun Nabihah Binti Jusri, Cook, Food Services, YCH, in consultation with Nutrition & Dietetics, KTPH
METHOD
1. Soak the bee hoon and set aside
2. In a heated pan, add 1/2 tbsp of oil and pan-fry the diced firm beancurd until golden brown and set aside
3. In the same pan, add 1/2 tbsp of oil and pan-fry the prawns until cooked and set aside
4. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil and stir-fry the preserved bean paste and chilli paste until fragrant
5. Add in the soaked bee hoon and beansprouts, coat well and stir fry till cooked through
6. In the final minutes of cooking, add the diced tau pok, firm beancurd and prawns and mix well
7. Serve hot and garnish as desired with lime and chopped chives
8. Enjoy!
THeart Truths: Debunking Exercise Myths
Regular exercise is crucial for heart health, but some misconceptions can hold people back from starting their fitness journey. Here’s what you need to know about exercising safely and effectively for a stronger heart.
In consultation with Cherlene Nah, Senior Physiotherapist, Rehabilitation Services, KTPH
he relationship between exercise and heart health is well-established, yet many people remain hesitant to start exercising, especially if they have a heart condition. However, exercise has heart-healthy benefits, especially at appropriate intensity, frequency and duration.
MYTH #1: ANY PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IS THE SAME AS EXERCISE
While both are beneficial for health, there’s an important distinction between physical activity and exercise. Physical activity encompasses any bodily movement that requires energy - from doing household chores to walking to the grocery store. Exercise, however, is more structured and purposeful, designed specifically improving or maintaining physical fitness and meet specific goals
such as to improve muscle strength and stamina. Daily activities complement exercise but should not replace it entirely.
MYTH #2: “I CANNOT EXERCISE IF MY HEART IS WEAK.”
This is perhaps the most dangerous myth, as it prevents people who could benefit most from exercise from getting started. In fact, appropriate exercise can help strengthen a weak heart. The key is choosing the right type and intensity of exercise:
• Aerobic exercise strengthens the heart muscle and improves lung capacity
• Resistance exercise increases muscle strength and reduces the heart’s workload during activities
• Flexibility exercise improves mobility and reduces stress through better muscle tension management
MYTH #3:
“I GET BREATHLESS WHEN I EXERCISE... I NEED TO STOP!”
Feeling slightly breathless during aerobic exercise is normal. The key is monitoring your intensity - you should still be able to speak in short sentences while exercising. Regular exercise improves your stamina, making you less easily breathless over time.
USE ‘FITT’ TO GET HEART-FIT
The key to safe and effective exercise lies in following the FITT principle:
F REQUENCY: How often you exercise
I NTENSITY: How hard you work
T IME: Duration of exercise
T YPE: What activities you do
To get started, you may do some daily stretching, holding poses for 10-20 seconds. Some other recommendations include:
MYTH #4:
“THE GYM IS ONLY FOR FIT AND STRONG PEOPLE.”
The gym is for everyone, including those with heart conditions. Modern gyms offer a range of equipment suitable for all fitness levels, from treadmills and stationary bikes to resistance machines that can be adjusted to your strength and fitness level.
For those new to exercise or returning after a break, it is important to start gradually:
• Begin with light intensity and slowly progress
• Monitor your breathing - you should be able to talk while exercising
• Choose activities you enjoy
• Mix different types of exercise for complete fitness
• Listen to your body and rest when needed
Remember, exercise doesn’t have to be intense to be beneficial. The best exercise programme is one that you can stick to consistently. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a swim, or gentle resistance training, every bit of movement contributes to better heart health.
