Introduction

In a heartfelt account that resonates with the struggles faced by many caregivers, Nadia Daeng’s caregiving journey unfolds, highlighting the sacrifices, challenges, and moments of hope. Her story, as featured in a recent Channel News Asia article, sheds light on the realities faced by caregivers and the vital support they need. As we explore Nadia’s experiences, we discover how caregivers can find solace, understanding, and inspiration from her story, while also tapping into resources and social enterprises like SG Assist and CareConnect, which aim to make a positive impact on the caregiving community.

Navigating the Complexities of Caregiving

Nadia’s journey began when her mother had a stroke, compelling her to become a full-time caregiver. Like many caregivers, Nadia faced loneliness, burnout, and a loss of self-identity. Her daily routine revolved around attending to her mother’s needs, leaving little time for herself. This predicament, sadly, is not uncommon among caregivers, as a study conducted by Duke-NUS Medical School highlighted that, “Family caregivers faced health challenges of their own – 40% rated their health as fair or poor (versus good, very good or excellent), 58% had two or more chronic diseases, 26% had mobility difficulties and 27% reported clinically relevant depressive symptoms.”

Building a Supportive Community

Despite the hardships, Nadia’s story emphasises the importance of seeking support and building a community. Recognising the need to care for her own well-being, Nadia joined a support group provided by Caregivers Alliance Limited, a non-profit organization supporting carers of those with mental health conditions. Through this community, she found solace, understanding, and the realisation that she was not alone in her struggles. This sense of solidarity can be empowering for caregivers, assuring them that there are others who understand and stand ready to offer support.

Social Enterprises: Empowering Caregivers

The story of Nadia’s journey also highlights the transformative power of social enterprises like SG Assist and CareConnect. These organisations strive to address the unique challenges faced by caregivers, offering innovative solutions and support networks. As the study by Duke-NUS Medical School revealed, “Only 5% of the caregivers had attended any caregiver training and only 38% were aware of the government-subsidised caregiver training grant.” However, with the emergence of social enterprises, caregivers can tap into resources and training programs that equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate their caregiving roles effectively.

Conclusion

Nadia’s caregiving journey serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and strength exhibited by caregivers. As we reflect on her experiences, we are reminded of the importance of community, self-care, and accessing available resources. Let us come together as a caring community, providing support, compassion, and understanding to caregivers who dedicate their lives to their loved ones. By raising awareness, supporting social enterprises, and advocating for caregiver training, we can make a positive impact and create a nurturing environment for caregivers to thrive.

At SG Assist, we understand that caregiving can be tough, but we’re here to help. Our goal is to provide you with the resources and support you need to make your caregiving journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. Visit our websites at SG Assist and CareConnect, and our Caregiver Resource Centre, to find the information and tools you need to take care of yourself and your loved ones. We also invite you to stay up-to-date with the latest news and resources by filling out our form here. Let SG Assist be your partner in caregiving.

References
Chia, L. (2022, March 6). She put her life on hold to care for mum. Despite loneliness and depression, she isn’t giving up. CNA. https://www.channelnewsasia.com/cna-insider/full-time-caregiver-depression-burnout-maid-dementia-2519056

Duke-NUS Medical School. (2023, March). A Profile of Family Caregivers of Older Adults in Singapore [Research Policy Brief]. Retrieved from https://www.duke-nus.edu.sg/docs/librariesprovider3/research-policy-brief-docs/a-profile-of-family-caregivers-of-older-adults-in-singapore.pdf?sfvrsn=69249a01_2