The early findings of an ongoing study by ROSA (Centre for Research on Successful Ageing) reveals that 8 in 10 (82.75%) older adults preferred to remain in their current homes as they age, a clear indication of the desire for continuity and stability, supported by accessible amenities and a strong sense of community.
For those who preferred to move, significant factors contributing to this desire includes a lack of attachment to their neighbourhoods and feelings of social isolation. These respondents reported fewer nearby amenities, smaller social networks, and less social support compared to those intending to age in place.
ROSA found that living arrangements (i.e., whether living alone or with others) was unrelated to how attached they felt towards their neighbourhoods.
Among the 17.25% who indicated plans to relocate, 57.86% wished to downsize, while 11.67% were interested in public assisted living options.
The findings, which were discussed at ROSA’s fourth annual Symposium on Successful Ageing, provide important insights into how built and social environments can foster a sense of attachment, social inclusion and identity for Singapore’s growing demographic of older adults.
6,020 Singaporeans between the ages of 53 to 79 (inclusive) were polled for the study in September 2024.
Amenities for ageing in place
More than 80% ranked transportation services (bus, MRT), medical facilities, nearby shops and eateries as important or very important. In contrast, only 56.41% rated community centres as important or very important, and only 36.93% rated childcare facilities as important for ageing in place.
Underscoring the importance of these findings, Professor Paulin Straughan, Director, ROSA said: “Our study deconstructs what makes ageing in place a palatable option for older adults. It depends on access to age-friendly amenities and social environments that foster place attachment, social inclusion, and a sense of belonging.”
“We are exploring how ‘family’ can extend beyond the home to the community, ensuring seamless transitions as individuals age,” she said.
By 2030, almost 1 in 4 Singaporeans will be over the age of 65.
ROSA’s applied research aim to shed light on the optimal ways to enhance the well-being of older adults in Singapore and promote successful ageing.
The Symposium was attended by more than 200 members of government, academia and industry. Mr Tan Kiat How, Senior Minister of State (SMS) for Communications and Information & National Development launched the Symposium with an opening address.
These discussions at the symposium are in line with the national Age Well SG programme, launched by Singapore’s Ministry of Health, Ministry of National Development and Ministry of Transport to support seniors in ageing well in their homes and their communities.
