Helping seniors care for mind and body

HEALTH EDUCATION

Seniors are given tips on how to stay healthy. For example, they are taught how to keep chronic illnesses like diabetes and hypertension in check, and are encouraged not to miss their health check-ups.

MERIDIAN FLAPPING EXERCISE

They use special tools to hit different acupuncture points on their bodies to improve blood circulation.

MUSIC REMINISCENCE

They pick their favourite song and photos. They are then asked to share the memory behind both of their choices.

MINDFULNESS THERAPY

They are made more aware of their surroundings, thoughts and bodily sensations. For instance, they are asked to scrutinise the texture of the raisin between their fingers before they eat it.

GARDENING

They are taught how to grow vegetables like cai sim (chinese cabbage) by learning how to plant the seeds and how to water the plants, for instance. The vegetables are harvested at the end of 12 weeks.

Samantha Boh

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on January 29, 2016, with the headline Helping seniors care for mind and body. Subscribe