Home downgrading made easier for elderly

The elderly were given special attention on Friday by the Ministry of National Development, with a new scheme that gives them a better chance of downgrading to a small flat within their existing neighbourhood.

Dubbed the Ageing-in-Place Priority Scheme, it will give the elderly applying for studio apartments double the balloting chances if the new flats are within 2km of their current homes.

Their balloting chances will increase to four times if they are also staying near their married children.

The scheme applies to all elderly home owners, even if they are currently staying in private housing.