For many at SPD, care is not just a profession – it is a commitment to walk alongside persons with disabilities and their families through every stage of life.
In this edition of Power of Care that coincided with Occupational Therapy Day on 11 January 2026, we feature Joel Foo, an occupational therapist who shares how learning, adaptability, and partnership with caregivers shape the quality of care he delivers every day.
UPDATES: How long have you been practising as an occupational therapist (OT), and what brought you to SPD?
Joel: I’ve been an OT for over a year now. I was drawn to the work at SPD because of its broad range of services. For a budding clinician like myself, this diversity is exciting. There are many opportunities to learn, grow, and develop across different practice areas.
UPDATES: What inspired you to choose occupational therapy as a profession rooted in care and empowerment?
Joel: During my schooling years, I was involved in community service projects and found deep fulfilment in helping others. That experience naturally drew me toward healthcare. At university open houses, I learned more about occupational therapy and was inspired by its philosophy of enabling independence and helping people return to the activities they want, need, and have to do.
UPDATES: How do you create trust and a sense of safety in the first few sessions?
Joel: I try to empathise with clients’ struggles, especially when they experience fear of falling or pain. By providing a “just-right” challenge and encouraging their efforts, I help them experience small successes early on. These moments are key to building trust and a positive therapeutic relationship.
UPDATES: What helps clients and families feel supported and confident in their care?
Joel: Clear communication and transparency are essential. Regular updates on progress reassure both clients and their families that I am invested in their rehabilitation journey.
UPDATES: Can you share a moment that reminded you why excellence in care matters?
Joel: While working at the DAC, I supported a caregiver who was extremely anxious after her domestic helper left unexpectedly. After completing caregiver training, she shared that she felt confident managing her loved one’s care on her own and even declined my offer to train the new helper as she felt confident to train her on her own.
Her words of appreciation meant a lot to me – especially as she was usually reserved and under great stress. Although this wasn’t a direct client interaction, it reminded me how vital caregivers are as partners in the care journey.
UPDATES: Do you have a message for fellow OTs as we celebrate Occupational Therapy Week?
Joel: As we encourage our clients to find meaning and joy in their daily occupations and to persevere through challenges, we should also turn these messages inward. By nurturing our own well-being and occupational vibrancy, we can continue giving our best — to our clients and to ourselves.
At SPD, the Power of Care is found in moments big and small – in the dedication of professionals like Joel, and in the confidence and independence built every day through thoughtful, person-centred care.
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