Adequacy, Utilisation Demand and Co-funding of Senior-friendly Progressive Resistance Machines at Active Ageing Centres

Mr David Hoe asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) how many Active Ageing Centres (AACs) are currently equipped with senior-friendly progressive resistance machines, such as pneumatic resistance machines; (b) what their utilisation and waiting times are; and (c) whether the Ministry or Agency for Integrated Care will consider co-funding such equipment for AACs where there is demonstrated demand.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: We do not collect data on progressive resistance machines at Active Ageing Centres (AACs).

We recognise that resistance training is important to many seniors. Seniors do not need specialised machines for effective resistance training. Simple exercises using body weight and basic equipment, such as resistance bands and simple weights, can be effective.

The Health Promotion Board (HPB) is exploring ways to support AACs in making such simple resistance workouts accessible to seniors in the community, including having trained laypersons support seniors when they are doing exercises. Seniors also have other options for safe strength training, such as HPB programmes conducted by trained fitness instructors, as well as Sport Singapore programmes at community nodes to improve muscle strength and prevent frailty.