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Elderly, Seniors & Active Ageing

Our society is ageing rapidly. By 2030, one in five residents in Singapore will be aged 65 and above. The pace of ageing will increase notably around 2012, when the first baby boomer cohort reaches 65 years of age.

This makes Singapore one of the fastest ageing populations in Asia. The effects of this demographic transition will be pervasive.

Several high level government committees have been formed since the 1980s to address issues concerning population ageing.

The Ministerial Committee on Ageing is chaired by Mr Gan Kim Yong, Minister in charge of Ageing Issues and Minister for Health.

    Policy Objectives and Framework on Ageing

    MCYS is the lead agency on active ageing. MCYS works in partnership with other ministries and agencies to address issues such as active ageing and employability, home care and family support, development of health and social care services and facilities, and manpower development for eldercare.

    Services & Programmes for Elderly

    An ageing population with higher life expectancy is also associated with higher prevalence of chronic and other medical conditions. A holistic approach towards caring for the elderly must cover their physical, emotional and mental needs. MCYS works closely with the Ministry of Health in developing integrated health-and-eldercare services and programmes.

    Seeking Maintenance from Children

    Needy elderly parents can seek financial maintenance from their children who are capable of supporting them, but are not doing so. These parents are encouraged to seek the assistance of the Commissioner for the Maintenance of Parents. The Commissioner will conduct conciliation sessions with a view to resolving the maintenance needs of the elderly. If conciliation is not successful, they may wish to consider filing an application for maintenance at the Tribunal for the Maintenance of Parents.

    Statistics & Resources

    Statistical indicators on the status of the Elderly, Surveys & Reports on the Ageing Population and websites of relevant agencies.
DATE PUBLISHED: Wednesday, May 05, 2010
LAST REVIEWED: Wednesday, March 07, 2012
Copyright 2011 Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports. All rights reserved.