Singapore faces a unique challenge of an ageing population projected to constitute 1 in 4 citizens aged 65 and above by 2030. This demographic shift comes with complexities including increased disability rates, financial security concerns, social isolation, and caregiving demands. To foster an environment where older adults can age well, Singapore must optimize both intrinsic capacity—the physical and mental health of individuals—and the environmental factors, including social support and accessibility.
What’s Inside the Report
-
Overview of Singapore’s demographic trends and implications for ageing well
-
Definition of healthy ageing based on WHO guidelines focusing on functional ability
-
Identification of challenges such as anxiety, loss of purpose, disability, and caregiving burdens
-
Recommendations for holistic approaches including financial planning, lifelong learning, social engagement, disability delay, caregiving enhancements, and age-friendly environments
-
Insights from an expert panel discussion outlining stakeholders' priorities and a heat map of care outcomes
-
Major system challenges including fragmentation, information silos, and workforce shortages
-
Opportunities for improvement through better integration of health and social care, unified data systems, family involvement, and aligned incentives
-
Technology’s potential roles and limitations within ageing systems
-
A conclusion stressing governance, integration, and empathy alongside technological innovation to support older adults meaningfully
Key Findings
-
Functional ability and intrinsic capacity are core to healthy ageing and require support at both individual and societal levels.
-
Financial and psychological anxieties significantly affect older adults' wellbeing.
-
Coordination gaps between healthcare and social services limit care continuity.
-
Stakeholders vary in priorities, with seniors and caregivers focusing on independence and care experience, while providers and government agencies have broader competing concerns.
-
Technology can expedite communication, monitoring, and care access but cannot replace systemic governance improvements.
Explore the full methodology, panel discussion insights, and detailed recommendations to understand innovative care strategies for Singapore’s ageing population.
