SINGAPORE - Freelance photographer Alan Lee, 69, who has an exhibition of photographs showcasing the everyday lives of his fellow patients at Assisi Hospice, was among those whom President Halimah Yacob met on her Friday morning (Sept 29) visit to the hospice.

In a Facebook post in the evening, Madam Halimah shared photos taken with Mr Lee, who has end-stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and other patients, staff and volunteers of the facility in Thomson Road.

"Mr Alan Lee, who has been a photojournalist all his life, shared with me that he must always have (a) camera with him. He has taken a series of beautiful photos documenting the everyday happenings at the Hospice. Once a photographer, always a photographer!" she said.

She also said she was touched by the compassion of the staff and volunteers who provide personalised palliative care for patients and their families.

End-of-life care support and services are an important part of Singapore's healthcare system as the population ages, she noted.

"Singapore is facing the challenges of an ageing population, and this will lead to greater demand for social and healthcare services. More attention needs to be given to those facing progressive illnesses, chronic diseases and age-related syndromes," she said.

"As the famous saying goes, 'we cannot add days to life, but we can add life to our days'. End-of-life care is about living the last days of our lives with dignity."