Kwong Keng, 23, has largely stayed at home without community engagement since graduating from SPED school. His family observed that over the years, he no longer laughed, spoke, or sang like he used to. He would spend all day seated in the living room, scrolling through YouTube all day. The family shared that he no longer gets up from his seat for anything, even to get food or water, or even to the toilet to relieve himself. Kwong Keng’s main caregiver, Mdm Lim, would then have to get what he needs and bring him to the toilet periodically. The family attributed this loss of liveliness to the years of social isolation. In late 2023, ESH came across Kwong Keng and his family through ESH’s door-to-door outreach, and he has participated in ESH since.
Over the months of participating in activities, he was observed to be happier and more enthusiastic. A memorable moment for ESH and Kwong Keng’s Mum was when he took the initiative to wash his hands. A seemingly simple task for most, but it was a great surprise for Mdm Lim - it gave Mdm Lim hope and assurance that Kwong Keng can increase his independent living skills.
The lack of social interaction has deteriorated Kwong Keng’s capacity to provide care for himself. However, with months of active engagement in social programs with an emphasis on independent living in ESH, Kwong Keng, according to the family, has come ‘alive’.
If you are living in Tampines or Bedok and looking to participate in ESH activities like Kwong Keng, email eshtamp@spd.org.sg or call 6230 9902.
Credit to SPD for Kwong Keng’s story and images.