STUDIO FLATS FOR THE INDEPENDENT ELDERLY

Abstract

The ageing population is posing a challenge to the housing scene in Singapore. The large proportion of elderly projected in the next two decades warrant serious consideration and planning by the Housing and Development Board for the needs of this sector of the population. Most Singaporeans are housed satisfactorily albeit inappropriately for old age. Although the majority of elderly want to live in their own home with their children, there is a growing number of elderly who welcome the alternative of living independently without their children. Therefore, the Housing and Development Board recently introduced a new form of housing, "Studio Flats", to meet the emerging needs of this group of elderly as well as promoting family togetherness. This research was carried out to determine the popularity of the scheme. Findings indicated that there is an interest and openness to independent living by the elderly. The study has shown that the elderly was quite receptive to the concept of studio flats. There was a general consensus that the design and the features of the studio flat were the deciding factor that make them opt for studio flats. Independence was also cited as one of the reason. This proves that the HDB is achieving its objectives in providing another housing option to cater to the elderly who seek independent living. The study also shows that the main reasons for not choosing studio flats are the price, flat size and lack of financial security. Finally, the study concludes that the studio flat scheme would be popular, but it may not be in substantial numbers.