Singapore--an ageing society

Abstract

Singapore is undergoing a rapid transition into an ageing society. This is due to a dramatic fall in the birth rate combining with a fall in infant and early childhood mortality rate as well as an improvement in the life expectancy. Other changes in the society such as the breaking up of the extended family structure, the changing role of women as well as the increasing expectations of elderly and their families are taking place at the same time. These changes will place increasing demands on the families of the elderly, social services, community and health services. There will have to be a rethinking on how we care for our elderly and the measuring required in meeting this challenge.