An Emotionally Safe and Secure Environment for Me!

With the right care and engagement, Mr Poh Chin Huat blossoms into a jovial gentleman!

When Mr Poh Chin Huat was first admitted to one of the Tender Loving Care Homes at the Lodge in 2020, he had difficulties adjusting to the new environment. He resisted care from the staff and declined participation in any activities. Mealtimes were also challenging for Mr Poh as he often refused to finish his food. Based on the staff’s knowledge, skills and experience, they knew Mr Poh’s behaviour was not done on purpose. Instead, he likely had unmet needs and aspirations that were not adequately addressed. This problem thus presented an opportunity for the care staff to devise creative ways to engage Mr Poh meaningfully in a dignified manner.

Understanding that Mr Poh had a penchant for sensory stimulation, the staff provided lots of materials that met his preferences for smell and touch. To cater to his need for emotional comfort and attachment, a baby doll was gifted to Mr Poh as a form of doll therapy. He gradually grew attached to it and felt more emotionally safe and secure. With patience and love from the care staff, Mr Poh has built a harmonious relationship with them and is compliant to care. He no longer exhibits signs of aggression, as evidenced from the InterRAI Aggressive Behaviour Scale. Furthermore, to empower Mr Poh during mealtimes, he was provided with plate guards to eat independently and his weight has increased to a healthy level.

Today, one of Mr Poh’s favourite activities is Melody of Touch, where he and his friends gather to socialize, interact and engage with the CRDL instrument. The CRDL is a magical instrument that produces sounds through touch. Mr Poh finds much meaning in this activity as the different soundscapes played remind him of his past experiences, including chickens clucking in the kampong, waves by the beach. According to assessment data, Mr Poh shows a full score in Positive Engagement when he participates in Melody of Touch. 

From his admission till now, Mr Poh has grown fond of the staff, activities and environment, with his wellbeing score rising from 15 to 27 out of 28. He can be assured that his physical, social and emotional well-being are adequately cared for with the love and compassion from all our care staff.