The Gen XY Lifestyle
St Luke’s Hospital Launches iReX
St Luke’s Hospital (SLH) announced the launch of iReX, Singapore’s first integrated rehabilitation and exercise programme in a community hospital setting, at its annual fundraiser, Celebrating Silver: Symphony of Hope.
Every year, around 20,000 people in Singapore suffer from major health conditions such as stroke, heart attack, and cancer, all of whom require rehabilitation to restore them to health.
With Singapore approaching “super-aged” status by 2026, coupled with the rising prevalence of chronic illnesses, the demand for rehabilitation services is expected to grow exponentially.
Rehabilitation has long been a core strength for SLH, which combines its strengths in gym-based, robotics and conventional therapy with a “high tech, high touch” approach to help patients regain independence and reintegrate into society.
The innovative allied health-led iReX programme stands out by offering an integrative and holistic approach to rehabilitation. By uniquely integrating traditional rehabilitation such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy with music therapy and art therapy, it addresses not only the physical but also the social and emotional needs of patients. This comprehensive approach fosters a more holistic recovery, encouraging patients to regain not just functionality but a fuller quality of life.
iReX goes further by integrating rehabilitation with fitness, empowering individuals to move beyond functional recovery towards greater independence and improved quality of life. For those who have completed rehabilitation and are motivated to improve their fitness, iReX offers tailored programmes to enhance strength, balance and endurance through personalised fitness training or group exercises.
The programme has shown promising results, with nearly 1,200 patients reporting positive outcomes. These include improved strength, enhancements in functional tasks like sit-to-stand and walking, and over 50 percent of patients feeling less fatigued and more energised for daily activities.
Beyond physical benefits, participants also experienced enhanced social and emotional well-being, with notable improvements in communication, expression, social engagement, and overall quality of life.
We believe that individuals, even those who have suffered an illness or disability, can be empowered to live an active, independent and fulfilling life. Through iReX, we aim to inspire hope, foster resilience, and build a healthier Singapore where every senior can thrive.
A/Prof Tan Boon Yeow, Chief Executive Officer, St Luke’s Hospital.
To donate: https://give.asia/campaign/slh-charity-dinner-2024-symphony-of-hope#/story
All pictures credit to St Luke’s Hospital.
