Finding Joy and Meaning Through Work

Mr Or Seng Kee leads a fulfilling life through work in the Home

For a gentleman with a small built, Mr Or Seng Kee has a big heart within him. He takes the initiative to clean up around the Home and offers to help whenever he sees someone in need. He takes it upon himself to see that the chores like sweeping, mopping and folding are completed. A care staff close to Mr Or recalled how he was apologetic when he could not help with chores once as he was unwell. Such is evident of Mr Or’s strong work ethic, sense of responsibility and purpose.

Mr Or has called the Lodge Home since 2013 and thanks to the person-centred care provided, he has maintained his functional abilities since day one. Based on the Pool Activity Level (PAL) instrument, Mr Or is at the Planned level of ability, meaning that he retains much of his cognitive capabilities and is independent in almost all of his daily activities.  With this information and knowing Mr Or’s strong preference for work tasks, the care team provided plenty of opportunities for him to continue contributing meaningfully in-Home.

Mr Or’s morning routine begins with him voluntarily sweeping the Home and arranging the chairs for his fellow residents before breakfast. While work is meaningful and important to him, he does not neglect his physical health. Mr Or makes sure he gets his daily dose of exercise, whether through co-facilitating group exercises, or doing a little chicken dance. Even if he breaks a sweat, he does it graciously and with a smile. After breakfast, he bathes and commences his work tasks for the day – changing the sheets, propagating seeds in our Therapy Through Work (TTW) programme with partner employer Comcrop, wiping of cutlery, folding laundry and more. He never gives up and always does his best in all that he undertakes. According to his Dementia Care Mapping report, Mr Or’s mood and engagement are highest when he is engaged in work activities, which provide much meaning and purpose for him.

A sociable but simple man, Mr Or enjoys leisure games and creative expression through craft-making with his fellow residents. He never fails to put on a bright smile when approached and treats the staff like family, poking fun and joking around with each other.

At his ripe golden age of 87, what is Mr Or’s goal? He expresses that he is a simple man and as long as he is still healthy, he is happy.