Evaluating the Effectiveness of Health Coaching in Wellness Befriending for Selfcare, Physical Health, and Mental Health

Abstract

Singapore's ageing population requires a shift from treatment to prevention-focused healthcare. The Healthier SG initiative emphasises lifestyle modification and non-healthcare individuals as lay extenders of care. This project explores health coaching—trained non-medical personnel partnering with clients to cultivate healthier habits through goal-setting and active listening.

Evidence shows health coaching improves quality of life, reduces hospital admissions, and increases medication adherence. Our pilot study demonstrated that community-based health coaching by non-healthcare professionals enhanced older adults' dietary awareness, exercise habits, and reduced loneliness. Both in-person and online modalities proved effective. This collaboration between ARISE and Lions Befrienders Service Association deploys health coaching training and mobile tools to volunteers, staff, and caregivers, supporting independent ageing in place while reducing healthcare reliance and benefiting family caregivers.

Principal Investigator

Theng Yin Leng

Prof Theng Yin Leng

Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information

Dr. Theng Yin Leng is Professor and Director at the Centre of Healthy and Sustainable Cities (CHESS) at the Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information, and Research Director at the Research Strategy and Coordination Unit (President’s Office) ...

Appointments:
Professor, Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information President's Chair in Information Studies Professor, Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information Professor, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (Courtesy Appointment) Executive Director, Ageing Research Institute for Society and Education (ARISE)

Keywords: Artificial and Augmented Intelligence | Computer Science and Engineering | Info-Communication Technology | Interactive Digital Media | Internet & Communications | Library and Information Management | Mental Health | Smart Cities