After leaving her job at the Land Transport Authority (LTA) in 2020 due to family commitments, Norita Binte Nurdin found herself at a crossroads. She had always wanted to give back to the community but wasn’t sure how. That uncertainty led her to enrol in a sports massage course—a decision that unlocked her passion for physiotherapy and elder care.
Finding Meaning in Elder Care
Norita recalls how practicing massage on elderly clients became much more than just physical therapy. “They would open up about their life stories—both happy and sad moments,” she shares. “It was like a therapy session for both of us, and I felt a deep sense of fulfilment in giving them a space to share their thoughts.” That sense of connection and meaning planted the seeds for her mid-career switch to healthcare.
Overcoming Barriers with the Right Support
One of Norita’s initial concerns was the financial cost of pursuing a new career. However, she discovered that support was readily available. With the help of SkillsFuture subsidies and a training bond with SPD, she received financial assistance and a training allowance that eased her journey. This allowed her to commit fully to the five-month SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme (SCTP) WSQ Higher Certificate in Healthcare (Therapy Support).
Thehybrid learning structure was another highlight. Living in Tampines, Norita initially worried about commuting to Jurong for physical sessions. “The online components made it manageable, and being in class was so worth it,” she says. The face-to-face sessions became a space for camaraderie. “I met amazing people who were like-minded and around my age. We bonded over shared experiences, especially in caring for sick loved ones. It felt like we were back in school, learning and growing together.”
Finding Fulfilment in Elder Care
Switching from engineering to healthcare intrigued Norita’s family and friends. They were fascinated by her stories from elder care and how she found meaning in her new role. “Working in elder care has given me insight into the ageing process and how health, behaviour, and character evolve over time,” she reflects. She’s learned that engaging seniors in activities not only improves their physical health but also enhances their mental well-being.
Looking ahead, Norita is eager to deepen her understanding of the elderly community. “Working with seniors requires empathy, patience, and constant learning, but it’s an incredibly rewarding path. I’m excited to continue making a positive impact.”
Start Your Mid-Career Healthcare Journey Today
Norita’s story is a testament to the possibilities of a mid-career switch. If you’re inspired to explore a meaningful career in healthcare, HMI Institute’s Train-and-Place Programme is here to support you. With industry-relevant training, hybrid learning options, and financial assistance through SkillsFuture, you can take the first step toward a fulfilling career in healthcare.
- Up to 90% course fee subsidies availablefor Singaporeans, Singapore PR and LTVP+ holders.
- $4,000 SkillsFuture Credit (Mid-Career) top-up for individuals aged 40 and above.
- Experience practical learning through classroom sessions, labs, and live simulations.
- Receive job placement support to kickstart your career.
Learn more about HMI Institute’s Train-and-Place Programme and how it can empower your mid-career pivot.
