Over 20,000 Seniors in Singapore to Gain Easier Access to Active Ageing Initiatives

In a significant move to promote active ageing, Singapore’s Health Minister Ong Ye Kung and National Development Minister Desmond Lee announced on April 2, 2024, that over 20,000 seniors across the nation will enjoy easier access to Active Ageing Centres (AACs) in their communities over the next one to two years.

These centres are dedicated spaces that help seniors remain active and socially engaged, offering a plethora of activities ranging from communal dining to physical exercise, including innovative options like parkour. This initiative comes as part of the government’s commitment to ensure that elderly citizens age gracefully and healthily within their local communities.

Minister Ong stated that the Ministry of Health (MOH) is investing approximately S$800 million (around USD 586 million) over five years (FY24 to FY28) to not only expand the number of AACs but also to enhance each centre’s budget to facilitate more varied activities. Currently, there are 223 AACs across Singapore, a significant increase from about 150 at the start of the initiative, reflecting the growing recognition of the necessity for active ageing programs.

Bringing Programs Closer to Seniors

The launch of Our Residents’ Hub at Jalan Mas Kuning Playground is a prime example of the new strategies being implemented to make AAC activities more accessible. This pop-up facility was created through collaboration between the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC), National Parks Board, and the People’s Association to effectively serve seniors, particularly those residing in private housing estates.

Recognizing the unique challenges faced in private estates, Minister Lee emphasized the importance of creatively utilizing available spaces, such as community clubs and void decks, to facilitate these active ageing initiatives. The government plans to work closely with the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) to identify more sites for AACs, including a new facility by Montfort Care at the Marine Parade MRT incidental space.

Innovative concepts are being introduced, such as a mobile AAC by Presbyterian Community Services that transports equipment to local parks, enabling activities like K-pop fitness, illustrating the commitment to engaging seniors in enjoyable ways.

Emphasizing Community and Wellness

Health Minister Ong conveyed the importance of not just medical check-ups for seniors but also the essential values of maintaining friendships and mental wellness. He advocated for a community-oriented approach to ageing, hoping that these initiatives encourage seniors to step out, engage, and "play" in a supportive environment.

In addition to the expansion of AACs, other government initiatives aim to enhance senior-friendly infrastructure across Singapore. The Ministry of National Development has launched programs like the Silver Upgrading Programme and Neighbourhood Renewal Programme to improve living conditions for elderly residents in HDB estates. The Enhancement for Active Seniors (EASE) program provides subsidies for housing modifications that ensure safety and comfort, like grab bars and slip-resistant flooring.

The government is further advancing its efforts to integrate these age-inclusive facilities into Singapore’s urban planning, with upcoming changes reflected in the Draft Master Plan 2025.

Focusing on Local Needs in West Coast

In the West Coast area, where the announcement took place, Minister Lee highlighted the importance of addressing the specific needs of seniors in both public and private estates. His team has been actively engaging with local residents for nearly two years, seeking to understand their requirements and incorporating their feedback into the development of community initiatives.

Plans for upgrading local infrastructure include enhancements like the redevelopment of Clementi Stadium into an ActiveSG space with fitness equipment available for seniors and the recent upgrades along West Coast Road to promote pedestrian safety and accessibility.

With these efforts, including the contributions of new community members like Natasha Choy, who aims to foster connections within the locality, the government hopes to create a supportive environment where seniors can thrive as they age.

In conclusion, Singapore is not just securing a healthier future for its elderly population but is also reaffirming its commitment to fostering inclusive communities that prioritize active engagement and well-being for every senior citizen. With these transformative initiatives, the sky is the limit for active ageing!