Caption: Mr Heng (middle) interacting with staff volunteers from CapitaLand
“I am a simple man with simple wishes. I try not to bother anyone. I was touched when I saw the new furniture. My home now feels so clean and new. I really appreciate all the people who have helped me along the way."
At 93, Mr Heng Choon Teck has chronic kidney disease, heart problems and hypertension, but he does not let his failing health dampen his outlook on life. The nonagenarian still practices Tai Chi and watches TV daily to keep up with news.
“I like Tai Chi because it is not too strenuous for me. I find it relaxing. I do what I can at my age to build my stamina,” said Mr Heng.
Bringing cheer to seniors
And in March this year, Mr Heng was even more upbeat after his two-room HDB flat in Ang Mo Kio, where he has lived for more than 20 years with his elderly cousin, has undergone improvement. The flat was cleaned, decluttered, and furnished with new furniture and appliances such as a TV, TV console, and a washing machine.
Thanks to CapitaLand Hope Foundation’s #LoveOurSeniors initiative, which cares for vulnerable seniors in the community and improves their quality of life, seniors like Mr Heng, who face daily life challenges and lack adequate support due to family circumstances, can look forward to a more conducive home environment.
Caption: Staff volunteers from CapitaLand sprucing up Mr Heng’s home in April 2022
“I am a simple man with simple wishes. I try not to bother anyone. I was touched when I saw the new furniture. My home now feels so clean and new. I really appreciate all the people who have helped me along the way,” added Mr Heng with a smile.
Receiving help from TOUCH
Caption: Nurse Ms Khoo Jin Rui checking Mr Heng’s blood pressure
Caption: Mr Heng (left) with Home Personal Care Supervisor Ms Leong Baoru (right)
A few years ago, Mr Heng had a fall and struggled to take care of himself at home. He was then referred by a hospital to TOUCH Home Care (THC) in Ang Mo Kio to receive further support. Mr Heng needed help with showering, housekeeping, packing his medication and monitoring his health, preparing meals, and getting to and from the hospital for his appointments.
“I would feel giddy and breathless after taking a few steps. I was afraid I would fall. This is why I am mostly at home. I can no longer go out to meet friends at Ang Mo Kio Hub,” said Mr Heng.
Despite his age, Mr Heng puts on an enthusiastic smile each time he greets a volunteer. Although estranged from his family, he is contented with his life.
Good memories
Recalling his past, Mr Heng felt his happiest moments in life was when he was in his 30s. He was then a construction worker who led an active social life surrounded by friends. He then worked as an electrician, and took on freelance electrical jobs until he retired at the age of 70.
Mr Heng vividly remembers his favourite places in Singapore, such as the joy of taking a leisurely stroll in Sentosa, watching mischievous monkeys at Mandai Zoo, and admiring the unique architecture and landscape at the Chinese Gardens. Even after his retirement, Mr Heng would still go out to meet friends.
“I am fine where I am, safe at home. At least I can still step out for a short while to breathe some fresh air at my corridor and run errands. I always look forward to chatting with friends, TOUCH staff and my befriender. I just live one day at a time and hope for the best each day,” said Mr Heng.
Note: Mr Heng was able to enjoy his new home before he passed on in May 2022.