Staying Active at 95

At 95, Mdm Sabillah looks forward to her morning routine and loves to exercise daily to stay fit. She stays motivated and active at this age by being involved in everyday household tasks that is within her capacity. Whether it is taking leisure walks in her neighbourhood or exercising alongside seniors at TOUCHpoint@AMK 433, she follows her daily exercise routine religiously. 

No one would have guessed that Mdm Sabillah underwent a mastectomy less than a year ago as her courage remained unshakened. During this period, she received extra help from her daughter, Ms Firoza, who has been travelling frequently from Australia to Singapore to care for her mother.

“My mom is a fiercely independent woman. She wants to be active – till her last breath. Even after her surgery, she insists on going downstairs for her walks to regain and maintain her strength. She wants to leave a lasting legacy that will inspire future generations, and I will support her every step of the way,” says Ms Firoza, who takes great care in ensuring her mother feels comfortable at home while respecting her independence. 

Caption: Firoza showering her mother with love.

Caption: Cherishing an unbreakable bond.

Journeying with TOUCH

To further support her at home, Mdm Sabillah was placed under the care of TOUCH Home Care, whose staff makes weekly visits to engage Mdm Sabillah under the Home Personal Care (HPC) service. 

“My mother enjoys the company of Renthlei from TOUCH. She feels comfortable sharing with her and trusts her a lot. I am glad she has an avenue to express herself. When I was in Australia, TOUCH kept in touch with me so I know how my mom was faring,” says Firoza, adding that the weekly cognitive activities have been mentally stimulating for her mother. 

A befriender from TOUCHpoint@AMK 433 also visits Mdm Sabillah monthly and they would attend festive activities at the centre.

Caption: HPC staff Ms Renthlei playing an interactive game with Mdm Sabillah.

Caption: Always staying positive and socially connected.

Caption: Ms Tracy Lee (right) from TOUCHpoint@AMK 433 building rapport with Mdm Sabillah (left) at home.

Caption: Ms Firoza (left) befriending caregiver Ms Carol Neo at TOUCHpoint@AMK 433.

Caption: Mdm Sabillah having a good time at a festive event at TOUCHpoint@AMK 433.

Feeling refreshed

Mdm Sabillah begins each day with a refreshing shower, and a series of gentle stretches and deep breathing – a routine she has followed faithfully over the years. Before heading out, she takes a moment to apply some facial moisturiser, eyeliner and some perfume, a small ritual that helps her feel confident and radiant.

“Self-care is her routine and discipline. It shows how much she values life – to live a dignified life and she is beautifully strong!”, adds Ms Firoza.

When asked about her thoughts on ageing, Firoza says, “Seniors like my mother have lived so long. They know themselves better and their capacity to do things. While we have our time on this earth, we have a responsibility to give back to society in whichever way we can. My mom's strength, resilience and her love for life should inspire seniors to live their best life everyday. As humans, we have the responsibility to give back, to respect our seniors. We should give them the dignity they deserve.” 

“Family members also play an important role to motivate, encourage and support them through their aging journey. Some may be overly protective and discourage their loved ones from walking or from trying to do things themselves. Instead, we should encourage them to do all their daily activities while keeping a close watch for safety. That will give them strength and confidence to carry on strong.

“Look at my mother! She stands up herself and takes the walking frame on her own. I also taught her how to adjust herself in tight spaces. She is 95 and can still do the things she enjoys!” 

Mdm Sabillah’s experience shows that age is just a number. When seniors remain active, with the support of loved ones, and stay connected to the community, they too can live meaningful and fulfilling lives!

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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