Reminiscence is a powerful way to spark joy, connection, and a sense of belonging among older adults. Recently at our SPD@Toa Payoh senior care centre, we conducted a group session with the seniors to bring them on a delightful journey back to the Singapore of yesteryears. Through stories, pictures, games, and craftwork, the group would rekindle fond memories while sharing laughter and meaningful conversations. In this article, senior social worker Katrine Lim gives us a glimpse of their recent session.
Revisiting old familiar places
The session began with a conversation about iconic spots that shaped Singapore’s landscape in the past. Our seniors recalled outings to Haw Par Villa, the bustling Singapore River, the Guan Yin Temple at Waterloo Street, and the lively neighbourhoods of old Serangoon and Hougang estates. As each person shared their memories, the room filled with stories of boat rides, street hawkers, and vibrant community life. Some even recalled their dating days!
Scenes of olden days
We then looked back at everyday sights from decades ago: the old coffee shops where friends gathered and rows of street shops.
The mention of Tiong Bahru Bao brought wide smiles, as did the question: “What was your favourite childhood snack?” From traditional titbits and cookies sold in metal tins to handmade sweets from the provision shop, everyone has a memory to share.
Stepping into the old home
Retro pictures of old houses and household items evoked more nostalgia. The participants pointed out familiar objects – grandfather clocks, wooden chairs, hot water flasks, nian gao (rice cake), laundry boards, and bamboo baskets. Memories of cooking with charcoal, brewing herbal remedies in large pots, and keeping live poultry in cages painted a vivid picture of life before modern conveniences.
Guess the household items
One highlight of the session was a lively guessing game featuring household items of the past. From the charcoal iron and cookie moulds to the Sanyo radio and rotary telephones, participants were eager to be the first to name them.
The game stirred conversations about how these tools were used in daily life, often accompanied by humorous anecdotes.
Crafting memories through play
To end the session, participants engaged in a hands-on craft activity – making a chapteh, a traditional childhood game where a feathered shuttlecock is kept in the air with nimble kicks.
Many remembered playing it barefoot with neighbours after school. Recreating the chapteh together brought a sense of playfulness and accomplishment, reminding everyone that the spirit of youth can always be rekindled.
Why reminiscence matters
This session was more than just a trip down memory lane – it was an opportunity for the senior to connect with one another, preserve their stories, and affirm their identities. By recalling shared experiences, they strengthened bonds and rediscovered joy in the simple things that shaped their lives.
Reminiscence groupwork is a gentle yet powerful way to celebrate our seniors and their past, honour their contributions, and ensure their memories continue to inspire future generations.