The people who make sure no one dies forgotten in Singapore

Support for the Unconnected in Singapore [00:03]

• A network of charities, social workers, and funeral directors in Singapore assists individuals with little or no family support in planning dignified farewells.
• Chinghong Welfare Service Society has been helping seniors with no financial means or next of kin plan their final arrangements since 2012.

  Across Singapore, a quiet network of charities, social workers, and funeral directors is stepping in to make sure people with little or no family support can still have a dignified farewell.

Growing Demand for Services [00:23]

• The number of cases has nearly tripled, from 106 in 2021 to around 300 last year.
• Referrals come from hospitals, nursing homes, and even the police.

  The number of cases has nearly tripled from 106 cases in 2021 to around 300 last year.

Holistic Care and Well-being [00:37]

• The organization provides more than just funeral arrangements, extending care to palliative needs and overall well-being.
• They offer glossary services and ensure comprehensive support as individuals reach the end of their lives.

  We just don't take care of the last right. We actually take care a bit of the palliative care and a bit of their well-being.

Addressing Isolation in the Elderly [00:57]

• Madame Kio, 70, spends most days alone after losing her husband six years ago.
• Many seniors become isolated as they age, losing contact with family members and the outside world.

  I realized that senior grows older and they become isolated. Even they have maybe have siblings or they have niece or nephew they don't get in contact with them and towards the tail end especially towards the tail end then they are not able to connect with the outside world.

Fulfilling Final Wishes [01:26]

• The charity also assists in fulfilling the final wishes of individuals.
• These wishes can range from enjoying a favorite meal to reconnecting with estranged family members.

  The charity also helps fulfill their final wishes.

Societal Trends and Future Needs [01:39]

• Singapore's aging population and smaller family sizes are leading to an increase in individuals with no one to make final arrangements.
• The work of these organizations ensures that everyone receives a dignified farewell, regardless of their circumstances.

  As Singapore's population ages and families become smaller, organizations say they're seeing more people with no one left to make the final arrangements.