Singapore’s growing senior population is facing increasing challenges related to health, loneliness, and financial security, according to a recent nationwide study. The research, known as “The Signs” study, revealed concerning trends in dental care, physical frailty, and social connection among older residents.
Declining Health Markers
The study, which surveyed 1,535 seniors aged 67 to 101, found that only around a quarter had visited a dentist in the past six months, with nearly a third not having seen a dentist in over five years. Associate Professor Rahul Malhotra, the study’s first author, noted that seniors “may not consider prevention as something they could engage in, in the context of dental health.”
Beyond dental health, the study indicated that approximately half of community-dwelling seniors exhibit some degree of frailty. Researchers found that two-thirds of those surveyed had only “very mild frailty,” suggesting an opportunity for intervention through muscle strengthening and balanced diets.
Social Isolation and Wellbeing
The research also highlighted a rise in loneliness among seniors, with nearly one in four reporting feeling mostly lonely. This feeling was more prevalent among those aged 80 and above, women, and individuals of Malay and Indian ethnicity. Furthermore, 16.5 percent of older Singaporeans experienced clinically significant depressive symptoms, a proportion that increased with age and was higher for women (20 percent) and Indians (24.3 percent).
Other concerns identified included low rates of cancer screening – less than 50 percent overall, with mammogram uptake as low as 25 percent for women aged 70-79 – reduced social networks, and lower digital inclusivity among the oldest-old.
Looking Ahead
The study’s findings, published on December 30, 2025, were funded by the Ageing Planning Office at the Ministry of Health. Researchers are currently analyzing data from a new sample of approximately 5,300 older Singapore residents (aged 60 and above) collected in “Wave 3b” of the study. This additional data could allow for comparisons across generations and a better understanding of evolving trends in aging.
It is likely that these findings will inform future interventions aimed at supporting Singapore’s rapidly growing senior population. Increased awareness campaigns, particularly regarding preventative dental care and cancer screening, could be implemented. Further research may also focus on strategies to combat social isolation and promote mental wellbeing among older adults.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “The Signs” study?
The Signs study, formally known as Transitions in Health, Employment, Social Engagement and Inter-generational Transfers in Singapore, is a nationwide longitudinal study examining the lives of older Singapore residents.
What proportion of seniors reported receiving financial support?
55.1 percent of seniors reported receiving monetary support from family members or other people, with the proportion increasing with age.
What percentage of seniors have received three or more doses of the Covid-19 vaccine?
Approximately 91 percent of older adults had taken three or more doses of the Covid-19 vaccination.
As Singapore’s population ages, what steps do you believe are most crucial to ensuring the wellbeing of its senior citizens?
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