Regaining Independence

While working as a salesperson, Mdm Yeo had to stand for long hours, which left her with weak legs in old age. Suffering from spinal and nerve issues which cause pain and weakness in parts of her neck and lower back, Mdm Yeo had to undergo two surgeries some three years ago. Living alone in her home since 2023, Mdm Yeo also had a bad fall along the corridor the following year while taking out the trash, which further limited her mobility. While recovering from her surgery in a hospital, she was introduced to TOUCH’s Reablement Programme, a care approach that seeks to promote greater independence and autonomy in seniors, to empower them to live more active and healthier lives.

Recovering through Reablement

Before being enrolled in the Reablement Programme, Mdm Yeo relied on TOUCH’s Home Care staff to do her groceries due to her limited mobility . While she appreciated the help, she aspired to shop on her own so that she could personally select and find the items she needed. 

Caption: The Reablement team advising and encouraging Mdm Yeo

Under the Reablement Programme, Mdm Yeo was taught exercises to strengthen her legs. “I think it is good that they teach me these exercises to make my legs stronger, instead of just asking me to walk around like what others would usually tell me to do,” says Mdm Yeo. The team also taught her exercises for her hands to reduce stiffness and improve her range of motion.

Reclaiming her agency and overcoming fears of embarrassment

Caption: Mdm Yeo getting ready to use the ATM while Reablement Care Associate, Emily, shares some safety tips

Reablement Care Associate Emily also encouraged Mdm Yeo to use a motorised wheelchair to run errands outside. Initially, Mdm Yeo was reluctant to use walking support or the motorised wheelchair when outdoors due to the attention it would attract. She was worried that people would wonder why she needed it. However, with encouragement from the Reablement team, she soon gained the confidence to use her motorised wheelchair to run errands, such as buying groceries from the neighbourhood shops nearby or getting money and updating her bankbook at the ATM. 

Caption: Mdm Yeo retrieving money from the ATM on her own

“Mdm Yeo cares about her image. With encouragement to go out more frequently, she has come to recognise how the mobility aid supports her independence and empowers her to do things that matter to her. She can also have greater social contact, which improves her mental health. She’s also now more confident to say ‘excuse me’ as she navigates in crowded places,” says Emily.

“I have always been very independent. I don’t want to rely on others for help,” says Mdm Yeo. Living alone with little family left, Mdm Yeo feels that she needs to be self-reliant in her old age. With help from TOUCH, she is glad that she can do some tasks on her own instead of relying on others. 

Caption: Mdm Yeo feeling confident with support from the Reablement team

If you know of anyone who can benefit from TOUCH's Reablement Programme, please call 6661 0829 or email touch.reablement@touch.org.sg .

Story published in 2025 

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About the Reablement Programme

In 2022, TOUCH Community Services initiated the Reablement Programme to promote greater ownership in seniors to manage their own health and reduce reliance on care services. It is also part of TOUCH’s ongoing efforts to adopt sustainable long-term solutions to mitigate manpower constraints to support Singapore’s rapidly ageing population. Supported by care professionals, seniors receive personalised coaching and training to increase their ability and confidence to age well, and age-in-place.