Every morning, one passing by Block 149 Toa Payoh would see Mr Pang Chew Wah, 71, watering the plants, trimming their leaves and swinging the garden hoe.

Having the strength to do all this gardening was not something he expected.

4 years ago, he suffered from a heart attack and retired from his job shortly after. He recalled how he would fall after taking less than ten steps from his bed when he was just discharged from the hospital.

"I couldn't control my hands and legs," he said. "It's hard to describe what it felt like then. I couldn't see the future, and I don't even know what the future is like."

Prior to joining Care Corner Frailty Management Programme (FMP) in September 2022, he often felt breathless and tired easily. He also did not cycle much - his usual means of getting around - as he was afraid of losing control and falling.

Gaining strength and motivation

Twice a week for FMP, Mr Pang and 30 other seniors participate in strength and balance exercises led by Care Corner professional physical trainers. He has since incorporated ankle weights into his exercise routine to strengthen his muscles even further.

As part of the programme, the seniors also receive additional support for their nutrition. After their workouts, they are provided with milk and soy milk to build their muscle mass. They also get to take home healthy ingredients like tofu and eggs, ensuring they have nutritious meals that increase their protein intake.

Mr Pang actively attends curated talks by healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, dieticians, physiotherapists, and pharmacists too.

He observed that both his legs are stronger now, and he feels less breathless. With his regained strength, he is now more motivated to be active. He resumed cycling longer distances around his neighbourhood again. There is just not enough time to do all the things he wants to do, he said.

"I managed to change the lightbulb at home and my neighbour commented that my house looks really bright," he added. "It felt good accomplishing something!" Next, he plans to repaint his house. Beyond his home, he also worked hard to beautify the community spaces.

He turned the once-empty plot of land outside our Care Corner Active Ageing Centre (AAC) into a lush garden – filled with sweet potatoes and pandan leaves. The papaya tree that he has planted is also finally bearing fruit!

Just as the papaya seedling grew into a mature plant, individuals also grow and develop physically, emotionally, and intellectually as they age. He, too, continues to learn more about himself. He never knew he could dance.

"I remember 'River of Babylon' was playing during one of the sessions, and it brought back so many wonderful memories," he said, recalling about how songs like this brought him to his feet. Today, Mr Pang is all smiles – strengthening his body and mind, and grooving to the music with his newly-made friends at the AAC.