RETAIL AND RECREATIONAL PLANNING FOR AN AGEING POPULATION IN NEW TOWNS

Abstract

84% of Singaporeans stayed in public housing as of 2005, thus underlining the importance of town planning. The proportion of Singaporeans aged 55 years and above has also been projected to more than double by 2025. Town planners must explore beyond the residential aspect to enhance the quality of life for Singapore's ageing population as well as deal with the challenges of its evolving characteristics. In this dissertation, the retail and recreational aspects of planning in public housing new towns were examined with respect to the elderly residents. Stratified sampling of the elderly population from various new towns was first carried out. 200 survey responses were obtained using a face-to-face approach. The satisfaction levels of the elderly population in new towns were measured to investigate any inadequacies of the retail and recreational aspects. Sources of their satisfaction and dissatisfaction with the retail and recreation in their new towns were also identified and evaluated. The retail and recreational patterns as well as needs of the elderly population in new towns were subsequently analyzed to study how the retail and recreational planning in new towns could be further improved. It was concluded that the elderly persons were not satisfied with the retail and recreational aspects of town planning. Using statistical analysis on the demographic profile of the elderly persons with their retail and recreational preferences, recommendations were made to improve retail proximity as well as recreational variety and affordability in new towns for the elderly population. They are to provide more food kiosks at void decks, improve communal facilities of senior citizens' corners, encourage retailers to charge the elderly at discounted rates for recreation, and keep both retail as well as recreational facilities within 10 minutes by public transport or 15 minutes on foot. To facilitate a fulfilling process of ageing for Singaporeans, the government must garner support from both the private sector as well as its citizens. In turn, the elderly persons could also respond by playing a more active role in contributing to the society.