Real-Life Stories: Singapore's Elderly and Disabled PMA Daily Users

In Singapore, Personal Mobility Aids (PMAs) provide essential support for the elderly and disabled, enabling independence and dignity. Stories abound, like an elderly hawker who relies on a PMA to navigate markets for supplies or a disabled professional who commutes daily using a mobility eScooter to maintain employment. These devices transform lives, offering mobility in a dense urban environment, though challenges like accessibility and infrastructure safety remain pressing concerns for these vulnerable groups.

Here are a few true stories of elderly and disabled Singaporeans who depend on PMAs:

Source of Liveihood, Mode of Transport

Peter Tan, a 60-year-old Grab delivery rider, relies on his personal mobility aid (PMA) due to knee issues. Since 2019, his PMA has allowed him to continue working, completing around 20 deliveries a day. He fears new speed restrictions on PMAs in Singapore could significantly reduce his income. Read More Here

This World Needs More Empathy and Kindness

Chen Zhenxing's elderly parents, aged 86 and 75, faced difficulties when a security guard at AMK Hub insisted they move their scooters to a designated parking area on the first floor, despite their limited mobility. This incident highlights the challenges elderly PMA users face in public spaces, leading to calls for more understanding and flexibility from the public and authorities. Read More Here

---

Sharing Their Personal Experiences Using PMAs in Their Daily Lives

This next highlights are three individuals, Xavier (29), Jehyen (49), and Janetta (31), sharing their personal experiences using PMAs in their daily lives. The focus is likely on how these aids assist them in navigating challenges, improving their mobility, and enhancing their overall quality of life. Their stories provide insight into the practical and emotional aspects of relying on PMAs for independence and convenience.

Xavier, aged 29

I have cerebral palsy. I have been using a motorised scooter for about three months as I have difficulties walking long distances. Before getting a scooter, I was not able to go around alone. Now, it is easier to get around on my own using a scooter, and I can go to work and visit my sister’s place independently.

Jehyen, aged 49

I had a stroke and it affected one side of my body. After the stroke, I had to push my manual wheelchair using one hand and one leg but it’s very difficult, especially when I have to go to work. I have since switched to using a motorised wheelchair for almost three years.

Janetta, aged 31

I met with a car accident more than ten years ago and am paralysed from waist down. I started using a motorised wheelchair back in 2017 when I wanted to pursue my graduate Diploma. Before that, I was using a manual wheelchair and someone will need to be with me. It’s hard to wheel my manual wheelchair for long distances due to spasms in my legs. I also could not master doing a *wheelie, therefore it’s almost impossible to take the train on my own. With a PMA, I can now travel on public transport independently.

Read More about these three individuals here.

---

These stories underscore the transformative impact of Personal Mobility Aids (PMAs) in improving the daily lives of elderly and disabled individuals in Singapore. By offering greater independence and ease of movement, PMAs empower these individuals to navigate their surroundings with confidence, participate more actively in community activities, and maintain social connections.

Additionally, the stories bring attention to the broader societal changes needed to create a more inclusive environment. This includes improving infrastructure, such as barrier-free access and dedicated pathways, enhancing public awareness about the challenges faced by these groups, and fostering a culture of empathy and support to ensure they can lead dignified, fulfilling lives.