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164 results · 2026
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Problematic Smartphone Use Among Residents Aged 65 and Above
Speakers: Joan Pereira, Tan Kiat How, Yip Hon Weng
The following question stood in the name of Ms Joan Pereira –
3 To ask the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health whether the Ministry of Health will consider (i) tracking the prevalence of problematic smartphone use among residents aged 65 and above and its association with loneliness, sleep problems and mental-health conditions and (ii) assessing whether current digital-literacy and active-ageing programmes adequately promote healthy screen habits among senior citizens.
Mr Yip Hon Weng (Yio Chu Kang): Question No 3, Sir.
The Senior Minister of State for Health (Mr Tan Kiat How) (for the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health): Sir, anecdotally, more seniors are hooked on their smartphones, with many watching artificial intelligence (AI)-generated micro-dramas. We see them go to our coffee shops in our constituencies, the seniors, uncles and aunties are on their phones, scrolling through all the AI-generated content on their phones. So, anecdotally, we do see more seniors using their smartphones.
This takes away time that seniors spend on socialising and exercising, which are important for their health and well-being. In the Ministry of Digital Development and Information's earlier reply in October 2026 in this House, 49% of seniors aged 60 and above reported spending an average of one to two hours daily on leisure activities on their devices. A further 38% of seniors reported spending three to five hours daily. This is significant.
Local studies have linked problematic smartphone use to poor mental health outcomes, including depressive symptoms, anxiety and sleep problems. However, these studies have largely focused on younger and middle-aged adults, and their findings may not be generalisable to seniors aged 65 and above.
The Government's approach is to help seniors use digital technology confidently and safely, while encouraging them to maintain active and socially connected lifestyles. Through digital literacy initiatives such as the Infocomm Media Development Authority's Seniors Go Digital programme, seniors are equipped with skills to navigate the digital environment. Under Age Well SG, Active Ageing Centres also offer opportunities for seniors to participate in physical, social and other meaningful activities, reducing the risk of social isolation.
The Government will continue to monitor emerging research and consider whether further studies are warranted.