SINGAPORE – Madam Adeline Chong has been worried she might get dementia ever since her mother suffered from the condition for years before she died.

While the 68-year-old retired administrative assistant has stayed physically active to stave off the danger, she recently discovered a new activity that has helped improve her concentration and focus. 

In June, she was introduced to sport stacking at the Sunlove Active Ageing Centre (AAC) @ Serangoon, where she has attended activities for four years.

Sport stacking – also known as speed stacking or cup stacking – is a sport in which participants stack and unstack cups in specific sequences, promoting hand-eye coordination and dexterity.

The activity is adaptive, allowing individuals of varying abilities to participate meaningfully. 

While she used to stumble and get confused with sequences in the beginning, Madam Chong now enjoys the sport.

“I feel more alert mentally, and enjoy the activity very much with my friends,” she said.

Making new friends is an extra benefit: through the sport, Madam Chong met former software engineer Ng Joo Leng. 

Mr Ng, 64, used to think that sports were no longer for him, as he had lost confidence in his physical abilities with advancing age. 

He feels differently now.

“What once felt out of reach is something I now look forward to each week. It has given me the confidence to stay active again, and I am grateful that there are now more inclusive opportunities for seniors like myself,” said Mr Ng.