Ong, 62 years old

I am Uncle Ong. I’m 62 this year. I used to live a comfortable live but I did not learn to save up. Because saving is an art also. I was jewellery designer last time, but last time I gambled to the extent I borrowed from the loan sharks. I always spend whatever I earn, that’s why I say saving is an art. I am not a person that knows how to save. Now I don’t even have enough to use, let alone save.

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“Then did you all apply for any form of financial assistance?”

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No, there’s a lot of questions asked. A lot of forms to sign. But In the end come out nothing… very troublesome.

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“Oh I see.. Why didn’t you try again then?”

I will lose face. Man like us will still want to keep our dignity, we don’t want to depend on others. My stroke is recent, around one to two years. Now I hope I faster recover.. Then I can go and work. It will be good if I can earn my own money, I don’t like to depend on the government. I’m a little arrogant so I care about my face.

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“Did you try going for physiotherapy?”

Starting got la. One week once only.. You also cannot stand ah, every session costs tens of dollars, and you have to call cab so how can you go so many times? Now I feel very demoralized already.

The financial assistance application procedure mentioned by Uncle Ong was a common problem identified across a few participants and from our prior research, where many applicants experienced difficulties in the application process. Uncle Ong also shared how he didn’t like the idea of receiving help from others. He regretted not saving up in the past and now he faced issues with regards to applying for the financial aid. He is not the only one facing these problems, perhaps it is time for some adjustments made to better assist these applicants in receiving help that they need.

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*names have been modified for anonymity purposes