HOUSING THE ELDERLY IN SINGAPORE - A PRAGMATIC APPROACH

Abstract

Singapore, like most developed countries, has a rapidly 'greying' population. In view of this, the government has tried to solve the elderly housing problem by coming up with Granny Flats, Multi-generational flats and recently, Studio Apartments. However, these housing policies have not been highly successful because of the unwillingness of the elderly to patronize them due to their aversion to relocate. Therefore, the study set out to investigate the possibility of home modification vis-a-vis "aging in place" being a more pragmatic and a more socio-economically gratifying solution to the housing problem of elderly Singaporeans. Literature reviews and investigation through direct correspondence with relevant authorities, as well as quantitative analysis of available data from a case study, led to the conclusion that the elderly person prefers to "age in place", and is willing to modify his home albeit beset by the problem of financing the home modification(s). In view of these findings, it has been recommended that the government takes action to facilitate the use of reverse mortgages to finance home modification. Furthermore, the government may support "aging in place" through the provision of subsidies to elderly persons who want to modify their homes but cannot afford to do so.