10
Inspiring Lives Beyond Services
Ageing Alone … But Not Alone
Mdm L ( not her real name ), 74 , and single , lives alone in a 2-room flat left by her step-father and mother after they passed away several years ago . Since then , she has been living alone all by herself , with no next of kin except for some occasional calls from a relative in Malaysia .
Story by Mr Michael Foo , Manager , Dorcas Home Care
She suffers from asthma , diabetes , hypertension and poor vision . She seldom goes out except when she is unwell and needed her neighbours ’ assistance to bring her to the doctor . She also has to depend on them to get food for her , which at times may not be possible if they are not available .
She was referred to Dorcas Home Care for our meals-on-wheels and medical escort services before her discharge from Alexandra Hospital in May 2013 . Since then , we have been delivering meals daily to her and providing transport for her medical appointments and follow-up sessions at the hospital . Because she is a public assistance recipient , we also waived off our charges to lessen her financial burden .
“ I don ’ t feel so lonely anymore … Thank you Dorcas !”
Recently , after noticing that her sofa and wardrobe were in very bad shape , we approached a kind donor who willingly donated a new set .
DORCAS Home Care provides home help service to many of these frail and vulnerable elderly , through meals delivery , escort for medical appointments , housekeeping and personal hygiene assistance . Many of these elderly are from low income background .
Dorcas Home Care depends on donations from the public to keep supporting these elderly with our services so that they are able to remain in the community for as long as possible .