SINGAPORE - People are getting more tech-savvy so studio apartments for the elderly should in the future have video conferencing technology. Similarly, buddy systems could employ WhatsApp to stay in touch with seniors.

There were no lack of ideas Thursday evening at the first of 14 public focus groups to be organised by the Ministerial Committee on Ageing to gather feedback for its action plan for successful ageing. About 60 people, from their 40s to their 80s, were present.

Senior Minister of State for Health Amy Khor told the media: "The emphasis is really about turning the conversation about ageing to a more positive one. Ageing is not just about growing old and frail, gloom and doom. Even though there are challenges, there are also opportunities."

Dr Khor also said technology would be of great help in making sure the elderly are not isolated.

The next few sessions will focus on topics such as senior-friendly homes and transport. The public can sign up for them online at www.successful-ageing.gov.sg.

Thursday's discussion was held at the Social Service Institute at TripleOne Somerset.

Participants were divided into small groups to talk about issues related to health and wellness, lifelong learning, aged care and infrastructure.

Mr Low Kim Suan, 66, a financial consultant, came to see how he could help.

He said: "I am thinking not just for myself, but for the elderly of the future. As a person of this age, I have gone through many things which have affected me. I want to be able to contribute so I signed up because this allows me to speak what I have in mind."