a life woven
with love
Ageing is not about slowing down—it’s about staying engaged. At Lions Befrienders, every smile, conversation, and shared experience brings people closer. Kaiyati’s story is a reminder that no one should age alone, and that every stage of life can be rich with friendship and purpose.
The rhythmic hum of sewing machines fills the air, occasionally interrupted by the laughter of seniors engaged in lively conversation. Among them, Kaiyati Ahmad skillfully stitches donated fabric into beautiful crafts, her hands moving with practiced ease. Having devoted her life to caregiving and childminding, she now weaves a different kind of love—one that nurtures friendship, purpose, and a sense of belonging at the Lions Befrienders Active Ageing Centre.
For nearly three decades, Lions Befrienders (LB) has been a pillar of support for seniors like Kaiyati, providing a space where caregiving doesn’t feel like a burden and companionship is always within reach. Here, she has found not just an outlet but a community, balancing her responsibilities as a devoted wife and caregiver while staying socially connected.
Her caregiving journey began long before she stepped into Lions Befrienders Active Ageing Centre situated at Tampines Block 494E. (LB AAC @ TPN 494E) She left her factory job in her forties to care for her children and soon extended that love to others as a childminder. Over the years, she opened her home to many, including two boys she adopted when they were just weeks old. “It started with one, then two, then four,” she recalls with a smile. “Before I knew it, I had eight.”
But life wasn’t without its trials. Her world shifted when her husband suffered a nasty fall, leaving him paralysed on one side. The once outgoing, confident man now relied on her for everything.
“It’s my duty as a wife,” she said simply. Day and night, she ensured he had what he needed—from meals and medication, to helping him to the toilet and bed. “I prepare everything for him—his clothes, his food, everything’s ready. I told him, if you need anything, just take—no need to ask.” On top of that, she continued childminding, juggling multiple caregiving responsibilities. Yet, amid the exhaustion, she never let go of her humour and laughter. “He’s so quiet now—no complaints at all!” she chuckled.
Slowly, with patience and love, Kaiyati helped her husband regain his strength. “At first, it was hard,” she admitted, “but I told myself—just do it, step by step.” Her philosophy is simple: “Any problem, I don’t think too much. I watch TV, scroll on my phone, distract myself. If it’s really bad, I go to the toilet, close the door, cry and let it all out—then okay, finish.” She doesn’t believe in dwelling on negativity. “Nobody has no problems lah. It’s just whether you can take it or not.”
As much as she gave, Kaiyati knew she couldn’t do it alone. LB AAC @ TPN 494E became her refuge, a place where she could recharge and find strength. Encouraged by the centre’s support, she brought her husband along to art sessions, coaxing him out of his shell. “I prepare his shirt and say, ‘Okay, come!’” she laughs. Today, he attends every Thursday, his paintings bright and full of life—a reflection of the care and encouragement he receives.
“Everyone here is so kind and helpful, they are like my family,” says Kaiyati. What first started as a few acquaintances blossomed into a tight-knit group spanning different backgrounds—Malay, Chinese, Indian. Kaiyati found herself learning names, telling stories, and becoming an integral part of a community of people who, just like her, were seeking companionship and connection.
The Lions Befrienders Active Ageing Centre is her second home—a place where she thrives. With her favourite exercise classes three times a week, neighbourly friendships, and plenty of laughter, her days are full. “Exercise, friends, laughter—that’s what keeps me going,” she said with a radiant smile. Kaiyati also found a renewed purpose through giving back, reminding her that even in her later years, she still has so much to offer.
At 67, Kaiyati understands the struggles that many seniors face—loneliness, declining health, and a shrinking social circle. With warmth and openness, she takes the initiative, starting conversations and making people feel seen. As a senior volunteer, she also reaches out to members who haven’t visited the centre in a while, ensuring no one feels forgotten.
Kaiyati shows a viral video of hers on her own TikTok page which garnered a whopping of 507K views and 56.5K likes!
To keep connections alive, she created a WhatsApp group on her own accord, called “Lions Befrienders,” where 19 members check in daily, share updates, and support one another. “If anything happens, we post there. Easier, right?” she grinned.
Beyond the centre, Kaiyati is the social glue that keeps her community thriving. She organises trips to Johor Bahru, arranging transport and ensuring every detail is handled. “I book everything, and we go!” she beamed. These getaways are not just vacations; they are much-needed breaks that strengthen friendships and lift weary spirits.
As the world gets busier and more disconnected, Kaiyati has chosen a different path—one of connection, kindness, and community. She encourages seniors to take the first step, saying, “Just come!” And to the younger generation, she has this advice: “Don’t look so sombong (apathetic) when you walk pass. Just say ‘hi’—it means so much to us.”
Through Lions Befrienders, Kaiyati had the chance to be part of something bigger than herself — to volunteer, to help others, and to feel valued in return. She always felt cared for, whether it was through health checks, engaging activities, or simply a friendly conversation. It was a place where people understood each other’s struggles, offered comfort in times of difficulty, and created memories together.
Kaiyati’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, generosity, and an open heart. Through Lions Befrienders, she has not only found friendship but also woven a life rich with purpose—one “hello” at a time.
Mdm Kaiyati grooving with her friends she made at LB AAC @ TPN 494E. The TikTok video went VIRAL! It has garnered more than 110K and 7K likes within 22 hours of launch!
Check out the viral video here and give it a like!
We hope that these stories would inspire you to reach out and touch the lives of others.
If you would like to share your thoughts on these stories, please feel free to email us at cp@lb.org.sgBe A Volunteer
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