As part of our Grandparents Day campaign, we share the inspiring story of Mdm Ng Ban Wee, 72, a resilient grandmother who cherishes the bond and time spent with her granddaughter during her weekly visits. Besides discovering her granddaughter's passions, she would learn about her experiences in school. She enjoys spending time over meals with her granddaughter, son, and daughter-in-law. Mdm Ng demonstrates her love through acts of service, baking and cooking for them. Mdm Ng has been living alone since her husband's demise a few years ago. As she navigates heart and mobility issues, Mdm Ng's son recommended installing the Singapore Red Cross' (SRC) Home Monitoring and Eldercare system at her place. With greater protection, safety and security, Mdm Ng's family is more assured that Mdm Ng will not fall alone at home.

Mdm Ng Ban Wee, 72, cherishes every moment she spends with her 15-year-old granddaughter whenever she visits on Saturdays with her son and daughter-in-law. Their visits, filled with heartfelt chats, shared meals, heartfelt chats, and memories are the highlight of her week.  

"Passionate about dancing and crochet, my granddaughter would show me photos of her intricate hats, socks, and clothes she had interwoven for her doll family!" she quipped in Mandarin with a chuckle. 

"My granddaughter has a reticent demeanour. But I would actively ask her questions, and she would respond. She would tell me if she was going to a school camp. She is in the gifted education programme, and would receive yearly bursary awards from the Minister," said Mdm Ng, as her eyes lit up with pride. 

Sometimes, Mdm Ng will teach her granddaughter the techniques to bake a cake during her weekly visits. “She even showed me photos of the muffins she baked herself!” says Mdm Ng 

Her labour of love, which she gladly invests time and effort into, and the cherished family visits and traditions give Mdm Ng something to look forward to each week. 

Greater Assurance and Security, Thanks to HoME+

Cognisant of her medical issues, her son suggested contacting the Singapore Red Cross (SRC) about installing the Home Monitoring and Eldercare (HoME+) service in Mdm Ng's home. Comprising motion sensors and panic buttons, the HoME+ system tracks her daily movements and detects any inactivity. As it does not leverage CCTVs, it is non-intrusive, ensuring her privacy. If she requires assistance, she can activate the panic button. The call centre would then contact her to check on her well-being. If she does not respond to the phone calls, the SRC will deploy its Community Responders to her home to ensure her safety. 

"I am concerned that I may fall alone at home with no one coming to my aid. The HoME+ system installed in my home detects my movement. I feel more assured that someone is looking out for me," she said, comforted by the support that the HoME+ provides. She has had HoME+ installed in her home since September this year. 

Besides the HoME+ system, Mdm Ng appreciates the regular phone calls from her son, who checks in on her daily. The HoME+ system gives Mdm Ng's family, including her granddaughter, peace of mind about her well-being. 

Unlike the typical traditional grandmothers who would compel grandchildren to comply with their ideals, Mdm Ng embraces the stance of autonomy. She believes in giving her granddaughter the liberty to explore her interests and passions. Mdm Ng is supportive of the path her granddaughter chooses in life, as long as it brings her happiness. 

"She hopes to be a vet. I will support her in everything she opts to do," said Mdm Ng. 

This Grandparents Day, we celebrate Mdm Ng's labour of love for her family and the joy that these cherished familial bonds bring. Her story reminds us of the profound impact and tangible difference that support systems can make in the lives of seniors like her and their families. 

By Sondra Foo, Marketing & Communications