“We would like to visit again next year.”
Professor Yang Seung-Joo’s words were music to the ears of SJH’s management and care teams. His request affirmed that they are providing good quality care for SJH residents.
SJH hosted Prof Yang (Department of Nursing Science & Director of International Relations, Geoje University) and his study group of nursing students, social workers, therapists and a mechanical engineering student from Geoje University for an exchange on 6 Feb 2026.
The study group aspired to apply what they learnt from how SJH carries out eldercare to improve eldercare back home in South Korea.
Prof Yang did not know about SJH before this exchange. Instead, their tour agent, who organised the study trip, suggested visiting SJH. After SJH’s sharing about how it cares for its elderly residents and a tour of SJH, Prof Yang felt that the group had come to the right place to learn about best practices in elder and nursing care. In his view, SJH is a good home for elders. Prof Yang’s request to visit SJH again in future reflected this conviction. [Click here to view the briefing provided]
The study group was attentive throughout the briefing and asked many questions. Besides the principles and best practices for eldercare, participants were also very interested in the design of the residents’ living areas, including shower and toilet facilities. The group enjoyed their stroll through SJH’s gardens as well. Younger members could not resist the opportunity to take many selfies and group photos on the rooftop garden.
When asked what stood out for them about the care at SJH, one participant highlighted its holistic nature. For instance, counselling is available for residents who need or want it. In this way, SJH looks after their mental and emotional health, besides their physical needs. Other participants were moved by SJH’s emphasis on showing empathy and love to its residents, including using touch to communicate love and concern. Looking at touch from this perspective was new for these participants. One student hoped that his parents would enjoy the same emphatic and loving treatment at a South Korean elder home. As for himself, he would strive to provide the same emphatic care for elders when he returns to South Korea. The high ratio of nurses to residents was another aspect that impressed the study group.
Beyond the quality of care, a participant praised the design of SJH’s toilets for accessibility and features that addressed the needs of residents. Another participant noted that SJH is well-run, praising its good organisation.
The ultimate expression of confidence in the quality of care at SJH came from a participant, who asked if he would be allowed to stay at SJH (in his old age).
Author:
Lee Han Yin
Volunteer Writer for St John's
Get in touch! Contact us at progvm@stjohneldershome.org.sg or 6285 4446.
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