Interview with David Soh Poh Huat
1. Congratulations on the release of your book Being a Caregiver: Is It a Profession? and on winning the Sahitya Sparsh Awards – Season 3. How does it feel to receive this recognition?
Personally, I feel deeply honored to receive this award. Caregivers need to be recognized internationally as a true profession, just like any other.
2. What inspired you to write this book, especially focusing on caregiving as a social responsibility?
As a freelance and part-time caregiver (CARER), I feel this work is a calling for me. I wanted to be a voice for those who have experienced the many shortcomings within this profession.
3. Caregiving is a deeply emotional and demanding topic. Did you draw from personal experiences while writing this book?
Yes. Everything I have written is based on real-life experiences, and I believe these challenges apply worldwide.
4. What message do you hope readers take away after reading Being a Caregiver: Is It a Profession?
I hope that a global body will eventually be established to formally recognize caregivers (CARERs), especially in view of the rapidly ageing population worldwide.
5. In your opinion, what qualities make someone a truly compassionate caregiver?
Not everyone can be a caregiver (CARER). It is a calling to serve others unconditionally. Those who enter the field purely for income, without passion, will not last.
6. Your book highlights caregiving as both a value and a profession. How do you see the future of caregiving evolving in today’s ageing world?
Firstly, I believe the term CARER should replace CAREGIVER to distinguish professionals from domestic workers who also provide care. CARERs should be fully protected in their professional roles, particularly in matters of negligence, similar to doctors or other professionals. They should be governed by a recognized organization, both internationally and within their own countries.
7. What was the most challenging part of writing this book?
The biggest challenge was remaining objective and examining caregiving issues at an international level, rather than from a purely local perspective.
8. As a Sahitya Sparsh Award winner, how has this achievement influenced your journey as an author?
It is bittersweet. As biblical teachings often say, if your home does not recognize you, move on. This recognition by the international community has inspired me greatly, especially being acknowledged outside Singapore.
9. Are you currently working on any new writing projects that you can share with us?
My next book will highlight gaps in social services for the elderly and the needy. I also plan to write another book focusing on the plight of seniors in the workforce.
10. Are you on social media? How can readers reach or connect with you online?
- Facebook: david.soh.739
- Instagram: david.soh.739
- Email: davidsoh.books@gmail.com
11. Where can readers buy your book Being a Caregiver: Is It a Profession?
The book is available on Amazon.com in both print and digital formats.
12. Thank you for answering our questions. Before we end, is there anything you would like to say to your readers or aspiring caregivers?
To all caregivers (CARERs): you are not alone on this journey. Have faith.
