What does home mean to you?
I live at St. Andrew's Adult Home (SAAH). I like listening to others sing at karaoke sessions, organising things, visiting supermarkets, taking selfies and people-watching.
It has taken me time to find a home beyond my home at SAAH. I may not say it, but I'm deeply thankful for all the care I've received from the care staff. Thank you for standing by me. I feel it all, and I carry that gratitude with me every day.
"I'm happy to be in St. Andrew's Adult Home — a place with daily care and support, surrounded by community."
"My dad's wish is for me to be somewhere safe, cared for and valued, surrounded by people who love me as much as he does."
"I am building a life that's mine, surrounded by people who see my strengths and support me through my challenges."
Jia Ming's profile
Autism Lasts a Lifetime
To Jia Ming,
In my letter to Jia Ming, I would like to tell her to always remember that, no matter how tough life might be, daddy and mommy always love her.
The arms of daddy and mommy will always be open to welcome her. We will always give her all the support we can give to help her get over any hurdles, big or small, in her life.
She can always rest in the safe harbour that daddy and mommy have provided for her. I will tell her to always be happy and cheerful and be thankful that the care staff of SAAH are taking good care of her.
With love,
DaddyAutism is a lifelong condition. For many caregivers of persons with autism, one question quietly lingers in their hearts: what will happen to my child when I am no longer around?
The reality is that as persons with autism grow older, support often diminishes. Opportunities narrow and communities grow smaller. Too many risk becoming unseen and unsupported in adulthood.
Persons with autism continue to need understanding, meaningful engagement, love and consistent support throughout adulthood. That's why at St. Andrew's Adult Home, we provide a safe and soulful environment for our residents as they continue to lead a dignified and meaningful life every day.
But this is not a journey families should walk alone. It is a shared responsibility — one that calls for communities to step forward, to build networks of care, and to walk beside persons with autism like Jia Ming, and their families, together.
Autism is a lifelong journey. Supporting adults on the spectrum — especially in their later years — can be a heavy emotional and mental strain on caregivers when carried alone.
If Jia Ming was your sister, how would you ensure she feels safe and cared for when you're no longer able to?
