Public Health Challenge of Loneliness among Older Adults

Mr Yip Hon Weng asked the Minister for Health (a) whether loneliness among older adults is being recognised as a public health challenge in Singapore; (b) how does the Ministry intend to foster a national conversation on loneliness and encourage an environment where older adults feel comfortable seeking support for loneliness; and (c) how does the Ministry ensure that relationships and loneliness are considered in policymaking and delivery by organisations across society, to support and amplify the impact of organisations that are connecting people.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: Social connectedness is a major social determinant of health. As part of supporting ageing in communities, the Ministry of Health is stepping up efforts to combat social isolation and draw seniors out of their homes to keep them socially connected.

Battling social isolation is a multi-pronged effort that involves different public and community agencies. The Silver Generation Office (SGO) under the Agency for Integrated Care is prioritising outreach to seniors who are living alone. Through these outreach efforts, SGO better understands the needs of these seniors and connects them with relevant support or services.

Seniors requiring social support will be referred to community partners, such as Active Ageing Centres (AACs), which provide a suite of services. Seniors at greatest risk of social isolation will be offered befrienders or buddies who check in on them regularly. Seniors can participate in a diversity of active ageing programmes across different domains, which can help them forge connections with others and keep them from falling into social isolation.

Apart from the AACs, seniors can participate in activities offered at Community Clubs/Centres, Residents’ Committee/Residents’ Network Centres and join interest groups under the People’s Association. SportSG’s SportCares also works with community partners to engage isolated seniors living in and around rental blocks through simple morning exercises. For seniors who are willing and able, they can approach SG Cares Volunteer Centres located across Singapore to explore suitable volunteering opportunities. Regular participation in such activities and programmes serves to build stronger community bonds and social support networks for seniors.