May 5, 2023

The incidence of seniors’ lonesome deaths in their homes going unnoticed for days and weeks in Singapore has recently received heightened news and public attention. ‘Why are S’pore’s elderly still dying alone, undiscovered for weeks?’ (The Straits Times, April 2023) references similar phenomena of lonely, old-aged deaths in the greying societies of Japan and South Korea, and consolidates expert advice on how to mitigate a similar phenomenon in Singapore.

In the article, Adjunct Associate Professor Corinne Ghoh (NUS Social Work) points out that maintaining the visibility of seniors by their family or immediate community is important to ensure seniors’ well-being. She notes that seniors who live alone can tap into monitoring or communications technology that allows them to notify family members or other emergency contacts when they need help. Regular checking in through text messaging or other means can also help seniors remain visible to family members.

A/P Ghoh emphasises the need for quality support for older adults as well, stressing the health benefits of having close confidants. Participation in activities with neighbours, interest groups or other agencies can also help build essential social support networks.

Even if seniors are not actively involved in community activities or are unwilling to reach out for help, A/P Ghoh suggests that the community alert the relevant agencies, like nearby active ageing centres or the Silver Generation Office, if they feel something is amiss with an elderly neighbour.

Read the article here: https://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/why-are-s-pore-s-elderly-still-dying-alone-undiscovered-for-weeks