Forum: Some seniors who are wheelchair users unable to benefit from EASE programme

I am a community worker who supports seniors, including many who live alone.

Over the years, I have seen how HDB’s Enhancement for Active Seniors (EASE) programme has significantly improved the safety and independence of older residents.

Many seniors living alone have benefited from the installation of grab bars and anti-slip floor treatment. Wheelchair users whose flats have steps at the entrances have also benefited from HDB’s support in installing ramps to improve accessibility.

However, there remains a small but vulnerable group of wheelchair users living alone who are unable to install HDB-approved ramps because of the structural design of the entrances and the limited range of HDB-approved ramp solutions currently available.

In some cases, the corridor is too narrow to accommodate a permanent ramp safely, while in others, there is insufficient clearance between units facing each other when both entrances are raised by steps.

HDB provides portable ramps as an alternative, but wheelchair users who live alone are often unable to deploy and retrieve these ramps independently.

The only way for them to enter or leave their homes is to rely on volunteers, neighbours or social service professionals for assistance.

When such support is unavailable, they are effectively confined to their homes and unable to participate in community activities, attend appointments, or carry out daily tasks independently.

While some neighbours are willing to help, many seniors feel uncomfortable having to rely on others for extended periods.

Over time, this loss of independence can contribute to social isolation, reduced community participation, and a decline in physical and emotional well-being.

I hope HDB can explore additional accessibility solutions for this vulnerable group.

Lee Weng Foo