SINGAPORE – Senior psychologist Peter Tan has a host of tricks to help and delight his patients at Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH).

One of her magic tricks involves shaking a black scarf until, seconds later, rainbow hues appear on the fabric. The 48-year-old works magic for some of his patients who suffer from mental health problems, strokes and mild dementia.

Philanthropic house Lien Foundation has introduced magic as a new tool for healthcare professionals to use as part of their patient care journey.

He hired Mr Alexander Yuen, managing director of Singapore magic production company Meta Illusions, to teach medical professionals at participating hospitals tips that can help their patients overcome the monotony and repetitiveness of standard physiotherapy exercises .

Mr Yuen conducted a five-session pilot workshop in August 2023 at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital (KTPH). A second workshop for TTSH began in December of the same year.

It teaches about eight different tricks, each performing a unique function.

“One way to structure the class is to combine easy tricks with more difficult tricks,” he told The Straits Times.

“This approach gives patients a boost of confidence after successfully completing an easy trick, encouraging them to tackle more difficult ones with greater resilience.”

Lee Poh Wah, chief executive of the Lien Foundation, told ST: “Hospitals can be lonely and intimidating places, and patients often feel stressed and helpless. We believe magic can help clinicians build a quick rapport with patients, making them feel more at ease.

Mr Lee added: “Learning a magic trick, no matter how simple, gives patients a sense of control and accomplishment. The shared experience of wonder and laughter can improve patient satisfaction and recovery, unlike conventional methods that fail.