Every morning, like clockwork, four-year-old Lisa (not her real name) stops by her neighbour’s flat on her way to preschool. She stands at the gate, waiting patiently to say “Hello” to the elderly man who lived there. Known for his stern demeanour and habit of scolding noisy children, this Uncle wasn’t someone most would approach. At first, he ignored her. Undeterred, she stands there, day after day, offering her simple greeting.
Then one day, something changed.
The Uncle returned her greeting.
Soon after, they began sharing quiet moments – sitting together, eating biscuits, and watching TV —always under the watchful eyes of her mother. Lisa’s mum would often smile at the unlikely pair. There was a vast difference in age, and neither spoke the other’s language. And yet, they found a way to communicate. Over time, Lisa’s parents also befriended the Uncle. They began looking out for one another. A bond was formed between people who were once strangers.
Encouraged by the connection they had made with the Unlce, Lisa’s family began checking in on other elderly neighbours. They made sure these uncles and aunties knew they weren’t alone, and there was someone they could turn to if they needed help. A community of connections formed.
The importance of these connections became evident when, during food distribution drives, a corporate volunteer group chanced upon some elderly residents who lived alone. They were concerned that these seniors were isolated from the rest of the community. Lisa’s mother, now an active neighbourhood volunteer, felt the same. Conversations started about how to ensure the elderly in the neighbourhood were better connected to their neighbours. And how they could be made to feel like they were part of the community?
Out of these conversations, “Elderly Coffee Chat” was born in Jalan Kukoh. It started small – corporate volunteers visiting elderly residents in their homes, to strike-up simple conversations. These visits revealed many elderly residents had hobbies, talents, and stories they were eager to share.
The home visits soon turned into breakfast gatherings with a small group of elderly residents. This evolved into potluck neighbourhood lunches at which everyone – elderly residents, neighbours and corporate volunteers – chipped in. Residents shared their talents, told stories, had some laughs, and enjoyed the warmth and camaraderie of newfound friendships.
Lisa’s simple greeting, her “Hello” said, “I see you, Uncle.” It opened doors and eventually brought a neighbourhood together. That’s powerful magic.