Health care services for the elderly--a Singapore perspective

Singapore is greying at a phenomenal pace as well as in a markedly disproportionate manner. By the year 2030, the elderly will comprise around 25% of the total population; at the same time the numbers of younger and economically active persons will decline. The reasons for this process are varied and its implications disturbing. An important consequences is the urgent need for careful and comprehensive planning to meet the elderly's needs. The needs are best addressed when the elderly are looked at as either being well or frail. A guiding principle is that most of them prefer and should remain within community (and not be institutionalised). Efficient and appropriate community services must be developed so as to support the elderly's stay in the community.