By Michelle Pascua, Corporate Communications Volunteer

“Being an ElderAid Volunteer is a rewarding experience as one feels a sense of fulfilment by bringing happiness and care to the lonely elderly, as a way of giving back to society.”

This is what keeps Nicol Chan, 38, an executive of a newbuilding ship company and a mother of three, going as an ElderAid Volunteer of the Singapore Red Cross (SRC). Nicol started volunteering five years ago with her sister. She initially attended a first aid course with SRC and became interested in becoming an ElderAid volunteer. 

ElderAid volunteers conduct house visits fortnightly, hold quarterly events such as birthday parties for the elderly, check on the living conditions of the seniors, monitor their blood pressures, ensure they have taken their medicines and meals on time and contact social services whenever necessary. Though these tasks seemed simple, Nicol strongly believes that one needs compassion and patience to befriend seniors and gain their trust.

“Seniors are usually lonely and some have the tendency to forget things. Their moods are inconsistent; they may be happy one day and grumpy the next. They may be accommodating to the volunteers on some occasions and aloof on others,” explained Nicol. 

As seniors are vulnerable, ElderAid volunteers need to be cautious and should have quick reflexes. Nicol recounted an incident where an elderly in her wheelchair nearly fell from her seat when a driver hit the brakes suddenly. 

“Luckily, another volunteer and I quickly held on to her and prevented an injury.” 

This experience taught Nicol to be more aware, and more careful with regard to the seniors’ health and safety. 

Nicol is not only a volunteer but also a befriender team leader. She monitors and updates the beneficiary visits of the ElderAid volunteers with their respective seniors. She also coordinates outreach events such as Project R.I.C.E+ and Wellness Kitchen, as well as those related to SG Secure and National Day Parade.

With her busy schedule, Nicol juggles her work, family life and volunteer work with the help and support of her family. It had become both a bonding time and life lessons to her daughters who accompany her on a few weekend visits to the elders. The volunteering experiences taught her daughters the value of respect and taking care of their elders.  

Being an ElderAid volunteer might not be for everyone, but Nicol still encourages everyone to give it a try, she encouraged, “Seeing the happy faces of the lonely seniors will not only touch your heart, it will also give you contentment in the knowledge that you have given back to society.”