Forum: Caregiving should be seen as shared family and community responsibility

The articles “The S’pore caregiver who snapped: Abdul Rani’s 14-year burden went unnoticed until it was too late” (July 11) and “More seniors in S’pore living alone in 2025, though most still live with spouse or children” (July 10) underscore the growing challenges of an ageing Singapore.

While many seniors still live with their families, more are living alone. At the same time, family caregivers are facing mounting emotional, physical and financial pressures, often without adequate preparation or support.

By 2030, one in four Singapore citizens will be aged 65 and above. Caregiving will become a reality for many families, yet it is a responsibility that most people learn only through experience, often during difficult circumstances.

Besides making caregiving values and practical caregiving skills a compulsory part of the primary and secondary school curriculum, Singapore could cultivate a culture where caregiving is understood as a shared family and community responsibility, rather than a burden carried by a few.

There are a few ways in which the wider community can play a more active role.

First, establish regular intergenerational partnerships between schools and nearby senior care or active ageing centres, so that engagement is sustained rather than limited to occasional visits.

Next, neighbourhood volunteer networks can provide practical support for seniors and caregivers, such as transport to and from medical appointments, grocery shopping, respite care and regular check-ins.

Finally, organise community “care circles”, where neighbours, grassroots organisations and volunteers coordinate support for vulnerable seniors and their caregivers.

Abdul Rani Md Ariffin’s case is a reminder that caregivers themselves need support. The growing number of seniors living alone also highlights the importance of building a compassionate society that values connection and mutual care.

Albert Lin Zi Han