top of page

St Luke's Nursing home experience

Written on the 1 May 2021

Image by Pablo Rebolledo

Yes, I managed to experience being at the nursing home for 2 days, 2 hours for each session. I thought I could do it for at least 2 months but apparently, my interest waned as fast as the demand of the oil supply goes up. 

It was an emotional experience on the first day because one of the seniors shared with me her intimate story about her family life. She nearly cried in tears because she really missed her grandmother so much as I do till now. Her grandma took care of her when the reality sets in that her father and her could not see eye to eye due to their differences. 

She was the first person who spoke to me. She was really outspoken and she introduced me to her other friends. 

Most of the seniors were really quiet and it makes me think how I would be like when I am really old like them. I may no longer be active and may need someone to care for me or being put in a nursing home. 

Being there reminds me of scary future possibilities because I prefer to remain active for the rest of my life. 

On the second day, I was really shy because there were a lot of university students who were there and I felt really uncomfortable. Due to medication, I become very introverted and I shudder at the thought of people being in the same room as me. I managed to strike a conversation with a senior who only spoke Chinese. So, I decided to use the Google translation to converse with her in Chinese. It was really fun but it got boring. 

I helped to serve water for them and serve food as well. It was really strange because some of them were really surprised and touched by my simple act of kindness. I realize because they were stuck in that space, they began to appreciate small acts of kindness by other people who served them. 

I am grateful for the opportunity to volunteer there for 2 days because it helps me to be more sensible and be in utter discernment. My heart will always have a soft for old people and will always love each of them in spirit. 

I realize I cannot work with vulnerable people who are poor, sick, and old because I will get emotional. Perhaps, I need to work at corporate jobs. I really do not know. Time will tell. 

Thank you for reading this through. Have a good day! 

With deep deep love,
Nur Afiqah


bottom of page