Background
Intellectual disability affects an estimated 2.7% of our
population. With almost three out of every 100 people requiring
appropriate care for associated conditions, there exists a need
for relevant services.
The Metta Day Activity Centre for the Intellectually Disabled was
established in January 1995 as a pioneering effort by Metta to
assist needy individuals afflicted by the disability.
Programmes & Services
Partially funded by the MCYS and NCSS, our day care services
cater to beneficiaries aged between 16 and 55 from various races
and religions, who are diagnosed with intellectual impairment
such as Down’s Syndrome, autism and developmental delay.
Specifically designed to develop their cognitive, social,
communication and motor skills, our curriculum addresses the
following four core areas, each of which is essential in
maximising their potential and facilitating their integration
into the society.
Social & Recreational
Activities
Instrumental in promoting interaction and constructive hobbies
among them is our rich platter of recreational opportunities
involving arts and crafts, games, singing, storytelling,
dancing, excursions, festive celebrations and grassroots events.
Activities of Daily Living
(ADL)
Our recipients learn to acquire advanced self-help skills through
honing their mastery in daily activities such as dressing,
feeding, mobility, grooming and toileting.
Community Living Skills (CLS)
Those who are competent in at least half of the ADL taught are
trained in CLS - skills that allow them to function adequately
in the community. Examples include time and money management,
domestic duties and the use of public facilities.
Pre-Vocational Skills
Conducted for those who have a good grasp of both ADL and CLS,
pre-vocational training prepares them for future employment in
both open and sheltered environment.
Basic skills like sorting, typing and labelling are taught along
with concepts like punctuality and responsibility (in relation
to the completion of tasks).
Value-Added Services
Occupational therapy and physiotherapy are provided to those who
have weak motor coordination skills or postural abnormalities.
In addition, annual health screenings are carried out in
partnership with the Singapore Anti-tuberculosis Association
(SATA) for all recipients.
The significance of our programmes goes beyond empowering them
with the abilities to cope aptly at home and within the
community. By offering respite to their caregivers who hold jobs
in the day, socio-emotional support is also extended to their
families. |
