Aging Singapore: Leading Asia in Aging Society Preparedness
A recent study by researchers from the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Columbia University highlights Singapore as the top-ranked nation in Asia—and among the global top 10—for its readiness to address the challenges and opportunities of an aging population. Switzerland secured the first position worldwide, with Japan following as Asia’s second leader in 15th place globally.
The study, published in Nature Aging on December 27, 2024, introduces the Global Aging Index, a new benchmark for assessing 143 countries. This index measures preparedness across five key domains: well-being, security, productivity and engagement, equity, and cohesion. Spearheaded by Assistant Professor Cynthia Chen from NUS and Professor John W. Rowe from Columbia University, the research emphasizes the critical need for nations at all income levels to proactively adapt to their aging populations.
Key Findings of the Study
Singapore’s Strength in Well-being
Singapore ranks first globally in the well-being domain, reflecting its outstanding healthcare system and focus on healthy longevity. The nation boasts the world’s longest healthy life expectancy, ranking sixth in universal health coverage and tenth in the share of life expectancy spent in good health. Initiatives like the Healthier SG program, launched in 2023, shift healthcare from reactive treatment to preventive care. Programs promoting health screenings, immunizations, and education further solidify Singapore’s leading position.
Security for Aging Populations
Economic and physical security are essential for thriving aging societies, and Singapore ranks sixth globally in this domain. It leads the world in perceived safety and healthcare satisfaction among individuals aged 50 and above. High resilience in mental health also strengthens its position.
Room for Improvement in Engagement and Equity
While Singapore ranks 17th globally in productivity and engagement, opportunities remain to enhance older adults’ societal participation. Although retraining opportunities for individuals aged 16–64 rank 10th globally, labor force engagement and volunteering among older populations lag.
Similarly, equity, ranked 36th, reveals disparities between younger and older generations in income and education. Efforts to ensure balanced resource distribution across age groups could improve these outcomes.
Social Cohesion: A Work in Progress
Cohesion, where Singapore ranks 42nd, highlights challenges in fostering intergenerational connections. Although many older adults enjoy internet access and support from friends and family, low neighborly trust and a high proportion of seniors living alone (115th) suggest a need for stronger community-building initiatives. Programs like Active Aging Centres and buddying schemes aim to address these gaps by encouraging social interaction and reducing isolation.
Aging Singapore’s Blueprint for Healthy Longevity
Singapore’s proactive initiatives, such as Health District @ Queenstown (HD@QT), exemplify innovative approaches to aging. Co-led by the National University Health System (NUHS), NUS, and the Housing & Development Board (HDB), this program promotes physical, mental, and social well-being across life stages.
Professor Wong, a lead researcher, commented, “As initiatives like HD@QT take shape, we hope to showcase how societies can transform the challenges of aging into opportunities for healthy, purposeful longevity.”
By addressing key challenges and building on its strengths, Aging Singapore offers a model for other nations, demonstrating how thoughtful policies and innovative programs can ensure a thriving, equitable future for aging populations worldwide.
