LIVING ENVIRONMENT OF THE ELDERLY

Abstract

Ageing population is a worldwide phenomenon. Singapore is facing an immutable demographic profile whereby 26% of the population will be 60 years and above by Year 2030. With the improvement in standard of living as well as an increase in life expectancy, it implies that the future elderly will have many more good years to enjoy. This poses a great challenge to the housing scene in Singapore. The preferred living arrangement has evolved from the multi-generation living in the past to the current independent living. Most of the elderly prefer to "age in place" as they have already accustomed to the surroundings and had established social roots and a sense of community. The study aims to examine the adequacy of the New Towns in providing for the elderly. A survey was drawn out to determine the satisfaction of the elderly on the existing provision. From the findings, most of the elderly were satisfied with their living environment despite the fact that the average homes were not elderly-friendly. Nevertheless, they highlighted the importance of incorporating certain features especially lifts stopping at every level to enhance their accessibility. Most of the elderly indicated an adequate provision of facilities for their convenient usage except for markets and sports facilities. On the whole, most were contented with their current living environment and were unlikely to move in the next five years.