SUCCESSFUL AGING AND LIVABLE COMMUNITIES IN SINGAPORE

Abstract

The growing aging population faced by Singapore has brought about various social and economic implications. The society is beset with responsibility of ensuring the well being of senior citizens; especially when the spotlight now is on the issue of successful aging, which to some extent is a function of community livability. Therefore, this study set out to ascertain whether the elderly of Singapore are aging successfully and whether there are livable communities to support successful aging. In view of this, the relevant extant literature was reviewed. This was followed by a case study of four hundred senior citizens of Singapore through a questionnaire survey, which was administered through personal interviews. It was found that there are four indicators of successful aging: 1) Good health 2) Having savings 3) Developing new goals after retirement 4) Feeling emotionally independent Similar predictors are observed at community level. For Henderson Hill and Sungei Serangoon West, emotional independence is also the most significant predictor for successful aging. For Yishun West, financial independence is the significant predictor for successful aging. No direct association between financial ability and emotional independence is observed. However, being in good health, having savings, and spending time with spouses appear to be linked with greater likelihood of emotional independence. Emotional independence and subsequently successful aging is more of a state of mind mechanism, rather than tangible fixed goals.Communities in Singapore are generally supportive and livable for successful aging, by which middleaged community is observed as the most livable community for successful aging. Assessment of the communities shows that old and middle‐age communities are complete with appropriate housing types and amenities. However, the general walkability and recreational options are still inadequately provided. On the other hand, young community provides good walkability and more shopping avenues. However, essential amenities for elderly such as health services and a variety of housing options are lacking in the young community. Communities of all three stages of maturity enjoy good accessibility, served with well‐planned transportation routes and safe public transportations.