Swedes eye tie-ups in healthcare, green economy

Perched atop a wind-swept hill on the outskirts of Swedish capital Stockholm is a homely villa housing a daycare centre for individuals with dementia and similar cognitive disorders.

- Tay Hong Yi

The Silviahemmet centre is run on the premise that good care means providing dignity to not just those being cared for, but family members and care staff too.

To this end, professional care is provided there in a relaxed, inviting atmosphere, all while ensuring that family members receive the social support they need, and care staff are respected for their skills, which are honed with practical training.

This progressive and holistic approach to eldercare is among Swedish innovations that the Scandinavian nation hopes can help meet Singapore's needs, especially given the Republic's ageing population.

The Straits Times visited Silviahemmet on Nov 11 as part of a media trip organised by the Swedish government ahead of a state visit by King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden and his consort, Queen Silvia, to Singapore from Nov 19 to Nov 21.

Vibrant colours, soft furnishings and rooms lit by a mixture of warm indoor lights and large windows provide a relaxed, inviting atmosphere at Silviahemmet, which is run by a non-profit foundation of the same name.

As dementia can sometimes erode spatial perception, to the frustration of those with the condition, soft, brightly coloured furnishings with round corners can help them gain a better sense of "where their body starts and ends", said Dr Wilhelmina Hoffman, the Silviahemmet foundation's chief executive officer.

The attention to detail at the centre extends to the attire for its 14 staff members, who include nurses, assistant nurses and occupational therapists.