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PM Wong’s on Singapore’s Seniors: Health, Community, and Age Well Neighbourhoods

 




During the 17 August 2025 National Day Rally, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong highlighted Singapore’s plans to support seniors as the nation rapidly ages. He noted that the proportion of Singaporeans aged 65 and above has risen from 13% in 2015 to just over 20% today. By next year, Singapore is expected to reach “super-aged” status, with over 21% of the population aged 65 and above, and by SG70, over 25% of residents will be seniors.

PM Wong emphasized that longer life expectancy is positive, but health-span, the years lived in good health remains a critical focus. While average life expectancy is 84 years, health-span averages 75 years, meaning many seniors spend approximately a decade with illness or disability. The government is working to extend health-span by promoting healthy lifestyles and leveraging technology, including early disease detection and effective treatments.

Healthier SG, the nationwide initiative to encourage regular engagement with family doctors, has already enrolled over 1.3 million residents. Seniors receive personalized health plans, lifestyle advice, and track progress via apps like Healthy365. One example is 77-year-old Mdm Adeline Lim, who actively tracks her steps and physical activities to stay healthy and earn rewards.

To address social well-being, Age Well SG encourages seniors to remain active and connected, offering therapeutic gardens, fitness corners, and inclusive neighbourhood activities. PM Wong highlighted groups such as the “Ah Ma Flippa Ball team,” where seniors engage in Flippa Ball and foster strong social bonds, friendships, and mutual support.

Long-term care and housing remain key priorities. Community Care Apartments (CCAs), a joint initiative by MND and MOH, combine senior-friendly housing with on-site care and activity centres. Harmony Village @ Bukit Batok was cited as a successful example. However, CCAs cannot meet all needs, as many seniors prefer to remain in their own homes.

To address this, the government is piloting “Age Well Neighbourhoods,” beginning in Toa Payoh and other senior-concentrated areas. Key elements include:

  1. Accessible Physical Touchpoints – expanding Active Ageing Centres, gym facilities, varied exercise programs (e.g., cardio drumming, kickboxing), and workshops.

  2. Home-Based Services – seniors can access home fixes, health checks, meal delivery, housekeeping, and personal care, coordinated by dedicated staff.

  3. Community Healthcare Access – health posts, rehab and physiotherapy facilities, and nurse deployment for post-discharge follow-ups, medication management, and basic consultations.

PM Wong stressed that these initiatives aim to integrate seniors within the wider community, rather than isolating them, ensuring seniors age with dignity, purpose, and social connection.

Through Healthier SG, Age Well SG, CCAs, and Age Well Neighbourhoods, the government seeks a holistic approach to senior care balancing health, social engagement, and long-term living arrangements. The vision is a Singapore where seniors are supported by neighbors, friends, and community, living meaningful lives as part of one united nation.

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