The Significance of Human Connection
Tharshana SUBRAMANIAM, College of Design & Engineering
My name is Tharshana, and I was in Year 3 of my undergraduate studies pursuing Architecture when I enrolled in the course GEN2061Y Support Healthy Ageing SG to fulfill the Communities & Engagement requirement. This is a year-long course involving community service in collaboration with the Silver Generation Office (SGO) to focus on supporting healthy aging in Singapore, driven by a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of our elders. This course focuses on engaging with the elderly in community service by going door to door and checking up on them, while also informing them about policies that can improve their lives; this has been an enlightening and heartwarming experience.
First and foremost, this experience has reinforced the importance of human connection and empathy in our society. Many of the elderly individuals I encountered were living alone in solitude, and a simple visit or conversation with them brought immense joy and comfort. There were some elderly seniors that were so delightful to converse with and they had so much to share with us. During one visit with an elderly woman and her family, we encountered a unique challenge as she could only speak the Hokkien dialect. Her daughter and grandson stepped in to help bridge the communication gap. However, since the grandson was also not very fluent in Hokkien, our conversation turned into a delightful mix of gestures, laughter, and broken phrases. Despite the language barrier, the environment remained warm and pleasant, filled with shared smiles and understanding that transcended words. In my experience, being there to listen and empathize can significantly impact their emotional well-being. It was evident that loneliness and isolation are prevalent issues among the elderly population, and our visits helped alleviate some of these feelings. Through our interactions, I learned that lending a sympathetic ear can sometimes be as beneficial to their health as any medication.
Beyond our interactions with the elderly, the journey of engagement has opened doors to a broader community, introducing us to a diverse tapestry of individuals. Through shared activities, group sessions, and community events, we’ve had the opportunity to connect with caregivers, family members, and fellow volunteers. This extended network provides a platform for exchanging experiences, strategies, and valuable insights into caregiving, community support, and the challenges faced by seniors. My friends and I recently attended the anniversary event of the Tanjong Pagar division Silver Generation Office (SGO), and it was an incredible experience. We had an amazing time meeting and communicating with other ambassadors, which was both inspiring and enriching. We enjoyed delicious food, took countless pictures, and engaged in lively conversations. The event was filled with fun and laughter, allowing us to build strong and meaningful relationships with everyone we met.
Learning from this diverse array of perspectives not only enhances our understanding of the complexities involved in elderly care but also fosters a sense of solidarity within the community. The shared knowledge becomes a dynamic source of inspiration, driving us to continuously improve our approach and adapt to the evolving needs of the elderly and their support networks.
Photograph by Joanna. (Silver Generation Ambassadors at the SGO anniversary event photobooth)
As an introvert engaging with seniors, I initially faced the challenge of navigating social interactions that demanded a level of extroversion. The prospect of initiating conversations and forming connections felt daunting, as I am naturally inclined towards solitude. However, I recognized the significance of my role and the positive impact genuine human connection can have on the elderly. To overcome this challenge, I took gradual steps, focusing on active listening and finding common ground. I discovered that introversion could be channeled into deep, meaningful conversations. By embracing my authentic self, I established connections that went beyond surface-level interactions, creating a more profound and genuine rapport with the seniors. This journey not only allowed me to overcome my introverted tendencies but also reinforced the idea that authenticity and empathy can bridge communication gaps, making the experience of engaging with seniors both fulfilling and transformative.
Photograph by fellow ambassador. (Silver Generation Ambassador Mentors and students having lunch together)
To the juniors considering this course, I want to say it is incredibly rewarding. This journey has provided me with valuable insights into the lives of our senior citizens and the broader implications of public policies on their well-being. Despite the hectic semester, engaging with seniors has been a deeply enriching experience for me, as it goes beyond the scope of duty; it becomes a source of genuine joy and connection. This course is a reciprocal journey of learning and sharing, creating a profound connection that transcends generational boundaries and enriches both our lives and theirs.
In conclusion, engaging with the elderly in community service has been a profoundly educational experience. It has highlighted the significance of human connection, empathy, accessible healthcare, clear communication, and advocacy in improving the lives of our senior citizens. As I continue this journey, I am committed to making a positive impact on their lives and advocating for policies that support their well-being, recognizing that our elders are a treasure trove of wisdom and deserve to live their later years with dignity and respect.