Peng Siong thinks big stories and little treasures are equally important in life. Photo: Kate Teh.
Peng Siong’s sense of style is obvious from the moment you step into her home.
Like many older Canberrans, Peng Siong had reservations about leaving the family house and potentially losing her independence. But as she got older, the property started to feel too big to manage on her own.
It was time for a fresh start in the right place – somewhere she could live life her way.
Since moving into LDK Amberfield in 2025, this former educator has enjoyed a life of leisure. She spends her days reading and listening to music, enjoying good food, regular guests and quality cups of tea when the mood strikes.
From the kitchen to the balcony, her apartment is decorated in rich red, gold and leather-brown hues. Antique furniture, a vintage piano and artwork from China join photos of happy grandkids and a view..
It’s high-class yet warm and comfortable and that fits Peng Siong to a tee.
Peng Siong taught at a secondary school in Malaysia before immigrating to Canberra with her husband and three kids in 1976. She later settled into a teaching and pastoral care role at Narrabundah College, where she stayed until she retired at 78 years old.
“My mum was really popular with her students, retaining many as friends even today,” Peng Siong’s daughter, Kate Teh, says.
“They take her out for dinners, shopping and the odd hairdresser’s appointment. She’s cultivated a wonderful network over the years, full of people who love her dearly.
“It has been terrific to see mum so spirited, well cared for and really enjoying life at Amberfield.”
Kate lives in London and visits Australia a few times a year. The mother-daughter duo checked out a few different places before they found LDK, some of which were confronting. Luckily, Amberfield was different.
“My mum is fiercely independent, creative and strong,” Kate says.
“We didn’t like the idea of a care home at all, but I needed some peace of mind that she’d be looked after, because it’s not like I can just jump in the car and pop over.
“LDK was the perfect solution because they have quality amenities, a really tight-knit community and mum will never have to move again. We landed on a two-bedroom apartment with lovely views and a shady balcony, right above the nearest nursing station.”
LDK’s One Move Promise makes sure residents can stay in their village for life. Some may downsize to apartments with more support as their needs change, but there’s no need to leave the community or people they love behind.
Kate organised a housewarming party in the village’s private dining room to celebrate her mum’s arrival. More than 50 people came along, which gave Peng Siong a chance to show off her new residence.
“I was very happy to see so many friendly faces there for me, you know?” she says.
Peng Siong never gets bored. She loves the privacy of her apartment but often pops out to chat with Amberfield staff, who she says are kind and make good conversation.
“The staff are wonderful, so friendly and great to talk to,” she says.
“I’m happy! I read and play the piano often, I have many friends who visit and take me out and my grandkids are growing up so quickly. My granddaughter has recently been practising painting my nails. They help keep me young.
“Though I am quite a reserved person and enjoy my own company, if I feel like having a conversation, it’s very social here. But there’s no pressure. It’s my decision to be involved or not, which I think is very important.”
For more information visit LDK: Amberfield.
Original Article published by Morgan Kenyon on Region Canberra.
Region Media Partner Content
