Singapore is ageing and there is no running away from this fact.

However, unlike the days of our fathers, older citizens are now better educated and more health-conscious. They are also more willing to embrace technological advances and not fear them.

As a retiree who is approaching 65, I can empathise with Mr Geoffrey Kung Kuo-Woo's frustrations ("Don't let rules be obstacles for retirees"; Oct 8).

There needs to be a relook of processes and procedures to take into account Singaporeans' longer lifespans.

Banks will not grant loans to asset-rich retirees, even if the loan to security ratios are very conservative.

We need a doctor to certify that we are healthy enough to drive a car at age 65, and every three years thereafter. Insurance companies are reluctant to insure older motorists, even if they have no-claim bonuses of 50 per cent, attesting to their safety record.

The Government, banks and other business establishments should be looking at older Singaporeans individually, rather than treating them on a blanket basis.

The ageing of Singaporeans will only add more numbers in the future, and it is better that business and government authorities start reassessing the situation now.

Raymond Koh Bock Swi