Alan, USM student

At first, I really think that demantia just means memory loss or forgetting, but after the visitation and explanation from Dr. Cecilia, demantia is really a spectrum, it's very large. Secondly, and also most importantly, I really love Dr. Cecilia and her team attitude toward people living with dementia, we see them as whole, and instead of focusing on their shortcomings, we should focus more on their strengths and empower them. We treat them like human beings who urge for freedom like us and also have hobbies that they love to do. What matters to them now is to enjoy and utilize every moments they have in their lives, I think this is what they want.

Janelle, attended BSC Eldercare workshop

In my opinion, the centre i visited yesterday is one of the best elderly care centre that I've seen. The elderly who is there looks peaceful and carefree. They feel very comfortable and the environment of the centre is very homey. The caretakers there are the best! They are very polite, friendly, warm and caring towards the elderly. They treat the elderly as who they are and will not force them to do things they dont want. They practice encouragement and is very patient with the elderly. They will observe the needs of the elderly and try to accommodate to their needs. I hope that they keep up this good work and can influence more people to treat the elderly more kindly and politely as well as raise awareness on this open door concept. All the best and keep doing what you are doing! Don't give up! 

Kimberly, attended BSC Eldercare workshop, based in Perth

Your passion and enthusiasm in helping people with dementia illuminate so much light and wisdom to understand the condition of the person, instead of being shun away from the current stigma in the society, thanks for what you do with escellence to educate and advocate 🙏
I would love to see more well managed centres like BSC Eldercare expanding throughout Malaysia 😍

Peny, Artsproud

It was a wonderful experience participating in forgotten Mutiara Cafe. Seeing everybody enjoying activities they used to love was heartwarming. These small moments are truly special.
The post-activity engagement with outsiders also helps break down barriers. It's crucial for others to understand that dementia isn't scary when approached with empathy. We hope to see more events like this, fostering community awareness and understanding.

John O'Neil

The Forgotten Mutiara Kafe is the brainchild of Dr Cecilia Chan and her team. It provides an opportunity fr those with dementia, their carer's and others company and most importantly 'bridge the gap'.
I feel that we could emulate this initiative around the country using this as a blueprint to 'bridge the gap' and help dispell the notion of them and us.

Agnes Teh

Looking around at all the people at the Forgotten Mutiara Cafe, some young, some old, some good and some having some form of dementia, made me wonder, what would my future be. Would I be so lucky to meet such caring people who would go out of their way to help me come to terms with whatever might come my way? Yes, my faith in humanity is further strengthened. We can make a difference.

Caryn

"I know my mum enjoys being at BSC Eldercare Centre. Her mood is much better after that. She will not show me "emotionless" face.
Thank you."

Emily (USA)

"Thank you for all you are doing for my beloved keluarga! I must meet you! Everything you spoke is what we also teach and share. Your message is absolutely brilliant, deply honoring the humanity of all involved!"

Ms Ooi

"Cecilia, I think my mum likes to go to your centre, she is comfortable and enjoys being there. Like you said, she needs more activities to fill her time rather than just sitting at home not doing anything. Her emotions are more stable after going to your centre too."

Sha Sha, Clinical Psychologist

The work you all do is an inspiration to us all 🙏 may I be able to be like you someday ❤️
Looking forward to collaborate with you in the future ✨

Suba Biggs, Retired Nurse

It was indeed an honour to attend the Forgotten Mutiara Cafe.
The Team's hard work coupled with the 'intensity of concetration' and joy on the faces of the clients was great. We all had a thoroughly enjoyable and meaningful time interacting, singing, dancing and 'chinwagging' (gossiping & talking) with all who were present

Edwin Chin

I used to focus on forgetfulness in dementia, the shell of the mutiara. This cafe switched my focus on the person instead. It inspires a shift in the way I perceive dementia. I am embarking as an agent of change to transform the dementia experience.

Anil Netto

The Mutiara pop-up café was a unique social experiment that showed how people living with dementia could interact with others in an informal and light-hearted setting. Those living with dementia helped to prepare the café, took part in games and gave us glimpses of their true selves. They were made to feel part of a community without any hint of judgement or prejudice - and they responded in surprising ways.
Well done, Dr Cecilia Chan and her team, for making magic happen!

Ms Teoh

"Thanks to you, I have some new information & understanding on dementia. Please keep up the good work. You are all doing wonders from the heart.
Thank you."

Ms Theng

"I would like to express my highly gratitude to everyone of you in BSC Eldercare Centre. I think my mom really enjoy and have a lot of fun at the centre. This centre really different with else where. As you all really put in many efforts to adapt into their world and let them feel being valued and respected. I think these all are neglected not only their feelings but also their dignity. Thank you very much to each and everyone of you and for your tolerance and patience to all the elderly. Again thank you!"

Hanni

"My mum has so much improvement in terms of physical & mental since she joined your centre. She is making new friends & she is very confident with your professional care like bathing, activities & dressing, really appreciate it 🙏
Thank you"

Syafiqa (Former Eldercare Coordinator)

"I has an amazing time working at BSC Eldercare Centre. The main reason is the team and the connections that I have fostered with people. Since the beginning, I have been given detailed guidance on how to give a more personal dementia care and how to connect with others. I believe this knowledge is important not just in healthcare but in other sectors too. Working at the centre gave me insights in caring for dementia patients while at the same time nurturing them as an individual. The team that I have worked with is fun, caring and there is aways help if you ever ask for one. All of these experiences I believe will help me in future career. I will continue to be an advocate for better dementia care and will continue to give back to the community. It has always been my top priority as an individual and BSC Eldercare Centre has definitely achieve my goals early in my career."

YSM/YSS

"Our mum was admitted with aspiration penumonia. She was put on tube feeding as the doctor feared she might choke again if we spoon-feed her. She had pulled out the tube few times. It must be uncomfortbale for her.
Luckily we attended a talk by Dr Cecilia on dementia recently. We messaged her and she went the extra mile to call and discuss with us. With her guidance and advice, our mum is now on careful spoon feeding and is doing well! We are extremely grateful to her.
Dr Cecilia is so passionate, caring and supportive.
Thank you so much Dr."

Syafina Noma, HSJ Volunteer

Volunteering as a photographer and videographer for the 'Forgotten Mutiara Cafe' was an amazing experience. I got to capture meaningful moments to contribute to a cause that raises crucial awareness about dementia in our community.

Nian, HSJ Volunteer

I am deeply honored to volunteer as the photographer for the photographer for the forgotten Mutiara cafe. Capturing these meaningful moments has been a profoundly moving experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such an important cause. Thank you for entrusting me with the responsibility of preserving these precious memories.

Marshall Fernandez

The Forgotten Mutiara As I entered the 'the Forgotten Mutiara Cafe Hall' I was welcomed with smiles & 'Welcomes'! I knew a few people but did not know many! Anyway it did not matter! As the minutes passed, with the tea & finger food & cakes, with the songs & dancing, with many dancing to our own rhythms & movements, we became more & more ONE!
I had a happy time! Suddenly my younger sister came to mind. She had Alzheimer's. I felt sure she would have been happy to see us being One. Thanks Sister Cecilia and all others for Ur big Hearts!

Margaret Chan

"My husband had dementia since mid 2022 which progressed until he could not manage his own affairs and became confused and lost, and at times, he was violent. In November 2022, he was admitted to a nursing home but they were unable to manage him and was transferred to another one. Despite all the medication, he did not improve and he was admitted to General Hospital Penang.
I befriended Dr Cecilia Chan, a Gerontologist on Facebook. She introduced BSC Eldercare Centre who provides holistic person centred approach in dementia care. I was very interested to send my husband to BSC to receive therapy but the only setback was transport from Penang Island to the mainland. Subsequently we found a good Grab driver who was willing to send my husband regularly to BSC. In mid June 2023 my husband attended the therapy sessions initially once a week, then increased to twice a week. Since then, he has improved tremendously and he is in a good mood. He enjoys going to BSC and is very comfortable and happy there.
Dr Cecilia and her team are very caring and sincere in their therapy with the clients. In particular, Dr Cecilia takes a personal interest in the welfare of my husband and she reports to me regularly on his progress.
Thank you very much to Dr Cecilia and your team. You are doing an excellent job."

Teh Lay Hua (Taiping)

"Communication skills is so important in our daily life. You can find our more in 'Beyond Dementia' by Dr Cecilia, from BSC, Specialist on Elderly Care. I benefited by gaining the 'what and how to better understand the elderly' after the talk.
Thank you Dr Cecilia". ❤️❤️🙏

Emily

"Thank you, again, on behalf of my keluarga Melayu. It was profound to see the positive impact you've had on them and Abah!!! Truly!!"

Auni Zarifah (Internship Testimonial)

Given the opportunity to undergo my internship here indeed a meaningful experience. Being a social science student, it is needed for me to understand the issue of society by being on the ground. As we are approaching to ageing society, dementia awareness should be escalated.
The work surrounding and people here are so positive and supportive. Dr. Cecilia and team really healpful to assist me in dealing with the workflow. It is fun working with them plus aunties and uncles are so cute!
Apart from that, coming from Johor, I am grateful with this wonderful team supporting me to cater issue such as accomodation and transportation. I will not able to experience this journey without their hands, especially Miss Ummie.
I believe my softskill especially working in a team and being empathetic among the most beneficial gain that I receive here. Once again, I have not other words beside grateful to Dr. Cecilia, Miss Ummie, Miss Ang, Miss Jess and Miss Kai Ni. You guys are rock!

Dr Low Chung Min

"Great work! I recommended a few patients to your daycare. Everyone has been very happy with it."