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Singapore crosses the super-aged threshold in 2026. Can its health system cope?
As chronic conditions, cancers and mental health issues become more widespread, the focus must shift to prevention of disease and affordability of care.
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In 2026, Singapore will cross a demographic threshold that few countries have reached as rapidly, becoming a super-aged society.
PHOTO: ST FILE
Teo Yik Ying
Last December, I accompanied my elderly father to the Singapore General Hospital for a series of medical examinations. As we walked towards the hospital foodcourt for lunch, I was struck by the number of seniors being pushed in wheelchairs, some visibly frail, others struggling with mobility. Some were accompanied by family members who were seniors themselves, while others appeared to be on their own, wheeled briskly by hospital staff moving between tasks.
I had seen similar scenes at the National University Hospital and Tan Tock Seng Hospital during work visits, and perhaps that was what made this moment stand out.
