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Inside Allium Healthcare: Naomi Chen & Marcus Tow on Personalised Parkinson’s Care & Support
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that can have a profound impact not just on those diagnosed but also on their families. In Singapore, approximately three in every 1,000 individuals aged 50 and above live with Parkinson’s, and with an ageing population, that number is set to climb. While April—Parkinson’s Awareness Month—has passed, the daily challenges faced by patients and their caregivers remain urgent and ongoing.
Recognising the need for sustained conversations about Parkinson’s care, The Vent Machine spoke to Naomi Chen, Senior Nurse Manager, and Marcus Tow, Principal Physiotherapist at Allium Care Suites. Together, they offered essential insights into understanding, managing, and supporting individuals living with Parkinson’s disease.
Why Parkinson’s is on the rise: Allium Healthcare attributes it to ageing and deconstructs other factors
Although Parkinson’s is most closely linked to ageing, there are multiple contributing factors to its rising prevalence in Singapore. Naomi explained, “While ageing remains a key factor in the rising prevalence of Parkinson’s disease in Singapore, there are several other contributors that are increasingly recognised. Genetics can play a role, with some individuals having a predisposition due to inherited traits or underlying medical conditions such as brain trauma, vascular issues, metabolic disorders, or even past viral infections.”
She added that environmental factors also play a part, noting that “environmental exposures, including air pollution and pesticides, have also been linked to a heightened risk of developing Parkinson’s.” Lifestyle choices—such as lack of physical activity, smoking, and poor diet—can further contribute to overall risk.
Environmental factors and minimising risk
As more research sheds light on the environmental links to Parkinson’s, the question of prevention is increasingly relevant. According to Marcus, “There is growing evidence suggesting a link between environmental factors—such as air pollution and exposure to industrial chemicals—and the development of Parkinson’s disease, although the strength of this correlation is still being actively studied.”
For those concerned about risk, Marcus recommended practical steps such as reducing exposure to pollutants where possible, using protective gear when handling hazardous materials, and adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise and a diet rich in antioxidants.
Early signs and the importance of timely intervention
Parkinson’s often develops gradually, making early recognition crucial. Naomi pointed out that early motor symptoms may include “tremors, muscle rigidity, slowness of movement, and noticeable changes in posture or walking patterns.”She also highlighted non-motor signs like reduced sense of smell, persistent fatigue, mood changes, and sleep disturbances.
Other subtle clues may go unnoticed at first, such as micrographia (smaller handwriting), facial masking (loss of facial expression), and vocal changes. Timely intervention—through physiotherapy, medication, and other therapies—can significantly slow disease progression and improve a patient’s quality of life.
The role of personalised care and rehabilitation: How Allium Healthcare is helping patients and families
Parkinson’s care is not one-size-fits-all. At Allium Healthcare, the team prioritises tailored rehabilitation to address each patient’s unique needs. Marcus described their approach: “Individualised rehabilitation programmes at Allium Care Suites focus on strengthening mobility, reducing stiffness, and enhancing daily function. These personalised plans help patients maintain independence and manage symptoms effectively.”
One standout example is the Lee Silverman Voice Technique (LSVT) BIG, an evidence-based programme that targets Parkinson’s-specific challenges like slow, reduced movements and impaired body awareness. Delivered intensively, it harnesses neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to adapt and reorganise—to recalibrate patients’ movement and abilities at every stage of the condition.
Specialised care models for ongoing support
At Allium Healthcare, a comprehensive Parkinson’s programme supports patients and their families through every step of the journey. Naomi outlined the model: “Our comprehensive programme includes nursing care, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, all tailored to manage symptoms, enhance mobility, and assist with daily living.” Regular re-assessments, fall prevention strategies, and close collaboration with neurologists are central to their approach, ensuring that each patient receives personalised and responsive care.
Importantly, education and support for families are woven into the programme, helping caregivers feel informed and confident in their roles.
Lifestyle choices that matter
Both Naomi and Marcus emphasised that lifestyle choices can either help or hinder disease management. A sedentary lifestyle, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and poor diet are all factors that can worsen symptoms. On the flip side, patients who engage in regular exercise, maintain balanced nutrition, and manage stress levels often see better outcomes.
Medication adherence and mental engagement are also crucial in slowing disease progression and maintaining well-being.
Practical caregiving tips by Allium Healthcare
Allium Healthcare understands that for caregivers, managing Parkinson’s involves both physical and emotional support. Naomi advised: “To manage daily challenges effectively, caregivers can support their loved ones by assisting with mobility, offering medication reminders, and helping with routine tasks such as meals, hygiene, or therapy appointments.”
She stressed the importance of creating a safe, clutter-free home environment and establishing a consistent routine to reduce stress and prevent accidents. Emotional support—offering reassurance, patience, and celebrating small milestones—can make a profound difference to a loved one’s mental health and resilience.
Naomi also reminded caregivers to look after themselves: “Caregivers should also be mindful of their own well-being—managing stress, celebrating small wins, and seeking support when needed are all essential for maintaining resilience and providing consistent care over time.”
Keeping the conversation going with Allium Healthcare
While Parkinson’s Awareness Month may have brought attention to the disease in April, the journey for patients and caregivers is year-round. These expert insights highlight that with early intervention, tailored care, and strong family support, individuals living with Parkinson’s can continue to enjoy independence, dignity, and an improved quality of life.
Learn more about Allium Healthcare here.
Also read: World Kidney Day 2025: How KDF is empowering Singaporeans with kidney health awareness
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