Oasis@Outram blends palliative care and celebration, creating a vibrant atmosphere for patients.
Strobe lights pulse as Philip Lee raises his martini glass, swaying to the rhythm of Elvis Presley’s “Heartbreak Hotel.” Nestled at the back of the bar with fellow enthusiasts, he revels in Happy Hour at The Tap. This lively bar, located within Oasis@Outram, offers a unique blend of cocktails and camaraderie for its patrons, all while embracing a vital part of life—mortality.
Oasis@Outram is not your typical day hospice; it transforms into a bustling speakeasy every week, allowing patients to enjoy their favorite drinks in an atmosphere filled with laughter and light. With bartenders donning fedoras and music setting the mood, the facility offers an unexpected yet joyful experience for those facing serious health challenges.
A Day Hospice Like No Other
In a busy corner of central Singapore, Oasis@Outram serves as a welcoming sanctuary for palliative care. Each week, the facility opens The Tap, inviting elderly patients to partake in afternoon Happy Hour. Laughter and cheer echo through the space, punctuated by games of Bingo and the delightful aroma of freshly prepared snacks.
As the patients indulge in drinks and games, their spirits rise, highlighting the importance of joy in their lives. Oasis@Outram is the first inter-generational hospice daycare in Singapore, catering to both elderly and pediatric palliative patients. All services provided are free, relying on public donations for operational support.
Where Care Meets Comfort
Upon entering, visitors are greeted with a warm and vibrant environment, contrasting the traditional notions of hospice care. Soft pastels adorn the walls, and classical music creates a soothing ambiance. The facility features an activity wall to inform guests of daily events, alongside comfortable seating areas for relaxation and socialization.
Patients enjoy a variety of activities, from mahjong games to pampering sessions in the Spalon, designed to cater to the diverse needs of individuals. Oasis@Outram ensures that mundane tasks are reimagined into enjoyable experiences, fostering a sense of community among its attendees.
Where the End Gets a Beginning
Benjamin Lim, a 27-year-old volunteer and former patient, shares his transformative journey at Oasis. Initially hesitant to engage with hospice care, he discovered a supportive environment that encouraged him to make the most of his days. Now, as a volunteer, he assists fellow patients, showcasing the profound impact of community and care in such settings.
Regular patient Yew Huay, 77, finds solace in the activities offered, focusing on creating meaningful memories. With an optimistic outlook, she emphasizes the importance of accepting one’s situation and cherishing the moments spent at the hospice.
A Unique Experience for All Ages
The facility also accommodates pediatric patients in its specially designed “Dungeon,” a playful space that promotes comfort and joy. Here, children engage in creative play, receiving care tailored to their unique needs. The collaborative atmosphere allows for shared experiences, bridging the gap between generations.
Patients actively participate in decorating for festive celebrations, further emphasizing the communal spirit that thrives at Oasis. Gardening and crafting become therapeutic outlets, offering patients a chance to express themselves creatively while nurturing their surroundings.
A Prescription for Happiness
For those working at Oasis, the experience is equally enriching. Nurse Serene Wong shares how her time at the hospice has shifted her perspective on life. She believes in living fully and embracing each moment, regardless of life’s uncertainties.
The vibrant atmosphere at Oasis@Outram serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, reminding all who enter that even in the face of mortality, there is joy to be found. As mocktails are served and glasses are raised, a toast is made—not just to life, but to the connections forged and the memories created in this extraordinary place.
