Elderly 101
Which of these is NOT a normal part of ageing?
A. Slower reaction time
B. Complete memory loss
C. Reduced muscle strength
D. Changes in vision
B. Complete memory loss
Dementia and severe memory loss are not inevitable consequences of ageing.
"All elderly individuals struggle with technology."
Myth
Many seniors actively use WhatsApp, PayNow and video calls.
Walking stick tapping
You notice an elderly uncle reading a very small menu and squinting. What should you do first?
A. Read it aloud if he agrees.
B. Grab the menu from him.
C. Ignore him.
D. Finish ordering for him.
A. Read it aloud if he agrees.
If you know you will be late for a volunteering session, what should you do first?
A. Arrive and hope the EXCO doesn't notice.
B. Inform your Centre EXCO immediately.
C. Skip the session entirely.
D. Tell your friends and hope someone passes the message along.
B. Inform your Centre EXCO immediately.
Name TWO senses that commonly decline with age.
Hearing
Vision
Taste
Smell
Balance
"If a senior forgets something occasionally, they definitely have dementia."
Myth
Occasional forgetfulness can be a normal part of ageing. Dementia involves more serious and ongoing changes in memory, thinking, and daily functioning that affect a person's ability to carry out everyday activities.
During your activity, a senior keeps asking you to repeat yourself. What is the BEST response?
A. Speak clearly and face them.
B. Repeat louder each time.
C. Ask someone else to explain.
D. Stop talking.
A. Speak clearly and face them.
People may not always remember ________, but they often remember how you made them ________.
what you said; feel.
Name TWO common challenges that older adults in Singapore may experience besides physical health issues.
Social isolation
Loneliness
Financial insecurity
Digital literacy
Mobility
Loss of independence
"Speaking louder is always the best way to communicate with seniors."
Myth
1. Face them
2. Speak clearly
3. Use simple language
An elderly participant takes much longer to finish a craft activity than everyone else. What should you do?
Encourage them patiently, avoid rushing, and let them complete it at their own pace.
Which of the following is the BEST conversation starter?
A. "Auntie/Uncle you how old already ah?"
B. "" (Say nothing, wait for them to initiate)
C. "What hobbies do you enjoy?"
D. "Uncle/Auntie, you stay where?"
C. "What hobbies do you enjoy?"
Singapore is one of the fastest-ageing countries in Asia. Approximately what proportion of Singapore's population is aged 65 and above today?
A. 1 in 10
B. 1 in 6
C. 1 in 3
D. Half the population
B. 1 in 6
"The biggest need of elderly individuals is material support."
Myth
Many seniors value companionship, dignity, independence and meaningful relationships just as much, if not more.
We volunteers provide more than services, we build connections.
Medicine bottle opening
A senior shares the same story with you three times. What should you do?
A. Tell them they've already said it.
B. Ignore them.
C. Listen patiently and continue the conversation.
D. Walk away.
C. Listen patiently and continue the conversation.
Your group notices one elderly participant sitting quietly while everyone else is chatting. What's the BEST thing to do?
A. Leave them alone.
B. Ask if they'd like to join and gently include them in the conversation.
C. Tell everyone to talk to them.
D. Wait until the programme ends.
B. Ask if they'd like to join and gently include them in the conversation.
A senior citizen wants to plan their grocery shopping to enjoy additional savings. Which action shows awareness of available senior support?
A. Shop only during weekends because prices are always lower.
B. Check for senior discount days and bring the required identification.
C. Ask another shopper to use their discount.
D. Avoid asking about discounts to not trouble the cashier.
B. Check for senior discount days and bring the required identification.
"Everyone experiences ageing in the same way."
Myth
Ageing affects people differently. Some seniors remain active and independent, while others may need more support.
Your group finishes all planned activities, but there's still 20 minutes left. What should you do?
Chat with them
Ask about their hobbies
Listen to their life stories
Play a simple game together
An elderly participant asks for your personal phone number so they can keep in touch after the session. What should you do?
Politely explain that volunteers should not share personal contact details, and let them know they can stay connected through the programme or organisation if appropriate.