Sorting out Life's Next Chapter

For over two decades, Mdm Sulemah worked as a postal worker, sorting mails for others. After she retired in 2022, the 67-year-old turned her attention to sorting out her retirement instead. 

“I was busy working the night shift for so many years and I did not have the opportunity to socialise with anyone in my neighbourhood. Every time I return home in the morning, I would see many seniors having fun exercising together. When I finally retired, I felt a void in my life,” shares Mdm Suleman who has mobility issues and now uses her trolley to move around.  

Thankfully, a positive encounter with a staff from TOUCHpoint@Geylang Bahru, an Active Ageing Centre (AAC), prompted her to check out the centre located at her block. The timing was just right as it coincided with the reopening of AACs during the later stages of the pandemic.

New discoveries and stronger ties

Mdm Sulemah got off to a good start as she took part in art and craft sessions at the centre. She found it fulfilling as she was able to rediscover her passion for art. She also had the opportunity to interact with seniors from all races. Mdm Sulemah achieved a significant milestone when she was invited to share her testimony in front of some 30 seniors at the “Blossoms Exhibition” held at TOUCHpoint@Geylang Bahru. It was an unforgettable experience!

Caption: Mdm Sulemah (right) leading an inspiring sharing session at the “Blossoms Exhibition” at TOUCHpoint@Geylang Bahru

Caption: Mdm Sulemah (second from right) flanked by art coaches from Hesed Artloft and TOUCH staff at the “Art for Senior – Functional Art Exhibition” held at TOUCHpoint@Geylang Bahru

Feeling fulfilled, Mdm Sulemah wondered if there were more activities for Malay seniors that may interest them. Coincidentally during that period, the ‘Malay Kampung’, a TOUCH programme to better engage the Muslim communities in Geylang Bahru, had just started in 2022.

“When I heard about the ‘Malay Kampung’, I was so excited. I knew there would be more opportunities for me to meet people,” adds Mdm Sulemah, who wasted no time in inviting a few of her neighbours to join her at the centre. “It is easier for me to invite them as we live in the same block.”

Caption: Mdm Sulemah (left) befriended Mdm Jamilah (right) through the Malay Kampung

Mdm Sulemah fondly recalls how a neighbour with special needs, whom she had invited, gradually growing to become an advocate for active ageing. “In the past, I had to accompany her to the centre as she was shy and withdrawn. Now, she is the one reminding us of upcoming activities! She feels accepted by others, and loves to chat and smile more now,” adds Mdm Sulemah.

Thriving in the golden years

From attending health talks to taking part in outings, walks, bingo and karaoke sessions, and learning to play the Angklung, Mdm Sulemah began to feel more at home at TOUCHpoint@Geylang Bahru. Soon, she was actively reaching out to other seniors who would gather at the nearby market hawker centre for breakfast. 

Caption: Mdm Sulemah (second from left) at a Malay Kampung event

Caption: Second row 5th from left: Mdm Sulemah with TOUCH staff and friends from Malay Kampung at a community event

Mdm Sulemah also learnt how to process her emotions and feelings after attending a mindfulness talk conducted by TOUCH’s counsellors. “I drew a star. It reminded me of how happy I was as a child, singing “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star,” says Mdm Sulemah with a smile. 

Learning to serve the community

After some time, Mdm Sulemah also progressed to become a volunteer as part of the ‘Caring Neighbours Programme’ initiated by TOUCH in 2024, to mobilise seniors for seniors, promote active ageing and foster stronger social bonds in the neighbourhood. Mdm Sulemah was asked to help make calls to other seniors, to encourage them to attend TOUCH’s AAC in Wellington. “I feel touched that I can still volunteer even though I can’t walk far. It feels good to know that I can still help other seniors ,” says Mdm Sulemah.

“I want more seniors to know that there are people at the AAC who can make you happy. The people there are very caring. I have friends now and life is great!”
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TOUCH runs five Active Ageing Centres (AACs) located in Ang Mo Kio, Geylang Bahru, Wellington and Yishun. AACs serve all seniors living within the neighbourhood, and act as a go-to-point to receive timely access to quality care. Our AACs are supported by TOUCH’s trans-disciplinary team of eldercare specialists, leveraging community resources to achieve long-term wellness to prevent and delay frailty, and to help seniors age well in the community.  

Story published in 2025.