Frequently asked questions
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For Senior Participants
General workshop & logistics
Is there a centre near me?
Check the Join Us page for the latest list of active partner centres.
Who do I contact?
Email us at hello@goldenbites.sg.
How many sessions are there?
There are 3 sessions in total, held on the same weekday, at the same start time, and in the same room. Sessions 1, 2, and 3 are 2 hours each.
Is there anything I need to do before attending Session 1?
Yes! Before arriving for Session 1, please either take a photo or remember what you ate for at least 2 meals prior so we can review them together during the workshop.
What if I miss a session?
It is completely fine if you miss a session! However, you must attend at least 2 of the 3 sessions to receive your completion certificate in Session 3.
Do I need to bring my own phone?
Bringing a smartphone is highly recommended so you can practice meal logging directly, but it is not required. If you do not have a smartphone, you can follow along using our printed paper worksheets.
Will food or drinks be provided?
Yes, breakfast is provided at the start of every session — just remember our golden rule: take a photo of your meal before you eat!
How can I contact the team between sessions?
You can message us anytime through the official GoldenBites WhatsApp Community Chat, which volunteers will help you join during the first session.
Healthy 365 app & technology
What app will we be using?
We will use Healthy 365 (developed by Singapore's Health Promotion Board) to snap pictures of our meals and track daily nutrition.
Do I need to be good with technology to participate?
Not at all. You will be paired with a youth volunteer who will walk you through setting up and using the app step-by-step at your own speed.
What if I get stuck or forget my login details?
Youth volunteers will be there during the sessions to help you with the Healthy 365 app, login difficulties and other tech issues that may arise.
Will this use up my mobile data?
Healthy 365 is completely free. If you do not have mobile data, volunteers will help you connect to the venue's free Wi-Fi network.
Dietitian & practical nutrition guidance
Who is the dietitian speaking in Session 1?
Session 1 features a talk by Sheau Kang, a registered dietitian specialising in senior health and Singaporean food options.
Can I ask the dietitian personal diet questions?
Yes! There is a 10-minute Q&A segment right after the talk. While Sheau Kang can address general diet questions, specific medical conditions may be advised for a primary doctor review.
Do I have to give up my favourite hawker food?
No! GoldenBites focuses on practical, small choices — like asking for less gravy or switching to kopi-O kosong — rather than strict diets.
Is there an exam or grading system?
No. Our games and activities help you explore everyday food choices together, with guidance from our dietitian and volunteers. There is no exam or grading.
Homework & post-workshop activities
What do I need to do at home between sessions?
Continue logging your meals and practising what you have learned. After Session 2 — Choose, keep your SMART pledge sheet and work towards your chosen goal before Session 3 — Keep.
What happens after the workshop ends?
In Session 3 — Keep, you will reflect on your progress and how to continue your healthier habits. Seniors who attend at least 2 of the 3 sessions are eligible for a completion certificate.
For Youth Volunteers
Roles & operations
What is the volunteer-to-senior support ratio?
The ratio is 1 volunteer for every 5 seniors, to provide hands-on assistance. You will stay with your group of five seniors for all 3 sessions.
Will volunteers receive any briefing before the workshop?
Yes. Prior to the sessions, all youth volunteers will undergo a briefing with our lead dietitian (Sheau Kang) to ensure everyone is aligned on core nutritional guidelines and recommending appropriate options to the seniors.
What are my arrival duties in Session 1?
Remind seniors of "photo before you eat" at the door, ensure every meal is photographed, assist with Healthy 365 app installation/login, and check that they have photos or notes on their 2 prior meals.
Do I need background knowledge in nutrition?
No! The dietitian handles formal nutrition content and will brief you beforehand. Your primary job is navigating the app, facilitating discussion, and offering encouragement.
Session mechanics
What is my role during Session 2 — Choose?
You will support your group of seniors as they reflect on their meal logging, take part in three nutrition game stations designed by our dietitian, Sheau Kang, and choose a realistic nutrition goal. Help explain the activities, encourage discussion and offer practical support when needed.
How do I help seniors with their SMART pledges?
Help each senior turn their chosen goal into a SMART pledge: specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound. Seniors keep their A4 pledge sheet. Volunteers will be asked to photograph the completed pledges so the team has a copy to support follow-up in Session 3 — Keep.
Troubleshooting
How do I receive volunteer hours and a certificate?
If you would like volunteer hours and a certificate, complete the feedback form provided at the end of the sessions. The form also asks about the seniors you supported, helping us understand their needs and improve the programme.
What if a senior is shy or uncomfortable sharing?
Keep conversations friendly and informal, and let seniors share at their own pace. They can speak with you or within a small group if they are comfortable. Do not pressure anyone to speak publicly.