Singapore’s Approach to Active Ageing: A Source of Inspiration for Policy Makers?

Singapore's Ageing Population

Singapore, renowned for its dynamic culture and robust economy, is increasingly acknowledged for its progressive handling of an ageing populace. According to the latest statistics, the city-state with about 6 million population has witnessed a rise in life expectancy—averaging 84.3 years for both sexes, one of the highest globally—and a decline in fertility rates, now at 1.0 births per woman. Consequently, the proportion of citizens aged 65 and above was 18.4 percent in 2022, indicating a swiftly ageing demographic. Projections suggest that by 2030, this figure will escalate, with nearly one in four citizens being in the senior age bracket. In comparison, in Germany, 22.4% of the population was over 65 in 2022.

The Singaporean government responds with initiatives like the S$3 billion “Action Plan for Successful Ageing” and the “Age Well SG Program”, encouraging seniors to lead integrated, active lives within their communities. These and other measures account for approximately 17% of the total government expenditure.

Background: Asian Societal Values on Ageing

Like other Asian societies, Singapore's is influenced by Confucian, Buddhist, and Daoist ethics, placing great value on filial piety, often resulting in multi-generational family homes and shared elder care responsibilities between siblings. Traditionally elders do hold a position of authority and respect – and yet some sort of modesty and frugality is expected to protect the children’s and grandchildren’s future. While social cohesion and community ties seem still stronger in Asian societies than in Western ones characterised by their individualistic values, there is a trend of weakening these tight family structures e.g. in Singapore.

Singapore's Approach to Active Ageing and Related Policies

Singapore's approach to active ageing is multifaceted and integrated, focusing on health, participation, and security. With one of the highest cost of living there are a variety of government schemes supporting elderly individuals especially for those with former low-incomes and no pension savings. 

Singapore's healthcare system is geared towards longevity and active aging, balancing affordability and personal responsibility through a well-designed financing structure e.g. applying risk-pooling strategies. The government leads with a dual approach, both regulating and incentivizing private sector participation to foster competition and innovation. Additionally, the government subsidizes a variety of healthcare services, from primary care to chronic disease management, while maintaining stringent cost control measures and employing technology to enhance service delivery and efficiency.

The Health Promotion Board (HPB) plays a pivotal role in cultivating healthy lifestyles among Singaporeans, orchestrating initiatives across all sorts of media channels that promote physical activity, nutritious eating, and mental health awareness. To pre-empt common chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart conditions, the HPB conducts screening programs and public education campaigns, emphasizing disease prevention and risk management through community engagement and awareness programs.

Apart from this, government approach includes:

• Comprehensive and Holistic Approach: Singapore's policy encompasses health promotion, social participation, and employment opportunities, ensuring a well-rounded lifestyle for seniors.
• Lifelong Learning and Skill Development: Programs are tailored to enhance continuous learning and adaptability among seniors, addressing the evolving job market and intellectual engagement.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborations between government, businesses, and community organizations create a supportive network offering a range of services.
• Technology Adoption: Digital inclusion programs and telehealth services are promoted to keep seniors connected and self-reliant.
• Age-Friendly Infrastructure: Infrastructure planning prioritizes accessibility, safety, and social inclusion, catering to the needs of older adults.
• Community Engagement and Empowerment: Initiatives promote intergenerational activities and empower seniors to participate in decision-making.

A Source of Inspiration?

Policymakers globally oftentimes study the small city-state’s policies in the search for successful strategies. Despite the cultural and economic differences the lessons from Singapore's active ageing programs might still be applicable to other countries.

Community engagement, and infrastructure developments such as the “Active Ageing Centers” (AACs) seem good starting points. AACs are residential complexes offering diverse programs for seniors, including health and wellness activities, educational workshops, and social events, to foster an active, connected lifestyle and implement the above mentioned strategies holistically. Such integrated residential centres oftentimes in existing complexes could be blue-prints, especially for Public Private Partnerships, in cases where government spending is not as available as in Singapore.

Remaining Challenges for Policy Makers Worldwide

For policymakers around the globe, universal challenges such as ageism, the intergenerational divide, and the digital gap persist, with technology adoption being pivotal. Technology plays a crucial role in scaling Active Ageing initiatives cost-effectively to the broader demographics, enhancing connectivity, combating social isolation, and providing access to opportunities at any age. If this succeeds, older people can continue to contribute to society according to their abilities.