Ren Ci Hospital Shared Memories

Driven by social workers, creative arts therapists, and volunteer groups, the initiative supports Ren Ci Hospital’s Chronic Sick Unit residents and their families in preserving legacies through meaningful, person-centred experiences.

Launched in 2019 and inspired by a resident’s heartfelt wish for a final family photo, Shared Memories has since evolved into a structured, sustainable programme that integrates photography, makeup services, storytelling, and creative arts. Music and art therapists tailor sessions to residents’ life histories, while social workers facilitate reminiscence work and caregiver engagement. Volunteers from TwinkleHearts introduced photography and grooming services, while church partners support residents’ spiritual needs through on-site church services and Bible storytelling.

Legacy projects incorporate music, images, familiar objects, and narratives that reflect each resident’s journey. Themed sensory sessions—like Christmas celebrations—engage residents with cognitive and physical impairments through scents, textures, and visual stimuli. Families are empowered to co-create these personalised moments, supporting connection and anticipatory grief.

Built for long-term sustainability, the programme is supported by a robust network of volunteers, church communities, and community professionals. Regular collaboration ensures cultural and religious sensitivity while allowing the team to remain responsive to the evolving needs of residents and caregivers.

To date, Shared Memories has supported 48 residents and 128 family members, consistently receiving high ratings for enhancing family bonding, dignity, and quality of end-of-life care. By addressing emotional, psychosocial, and spiritual needs together, the initiative exemplifies holistic, person-centred care in long-term settings.

With plans to expand into other care environments, Shared Memories stands as a compelling example of compassionate, community-driven care. For their creativity and sustainable contributions to eldercare, Ren Ci Hospital Shared Memories is awarded the Team Award 2025.

Note: The Transitional Programme for Employment (TPE) has been renamed to Transition to Employment Programme (TTE).

Listen to the team’s interview on CNA938’s Our Town with Susan Ng.

Team members include:

1. Bridget Monica Das, Senior Principal Social Worker & Head of Department

2. Sonia Oo Cheu Yin, Medical Social Worker 

3. Lim Boon Shine, Medical Social Worker

4. Goh Yiqing, Senior Medical Social Worker

5. Loh Mei Ling Brenda, Medical Social Worker

6. Poh Shu Ning, Senior Art Therapist 

7. Jolene Yee Xianfang, Music Therapist

8. Xie Xiao Yun, Volunteer Management & Development, Manager

9. Yeo Siew Mui, Volunteer (TwinkleHearts)

10. Lim Sze Min, Volunteer (TwinkleHearts)

11. Tan Ying Jie Angela, Volunteer (Church)

12. Poh Siok Ching, Volunteer (Church)