Dementia in S’pore’s ageing population not just a medical issue, but a societal challenge: Shanmugam

SINGAPORE – Singapore’s rapidly ageing population reflects the country’s success and its sound policies, but it also means that a quarter of the population will be aged 65 and up by 2030, and an estimated more than 152,000 people will be living with dementia, said Minister for Home Affairs K. Shanmugam.

This is not just a medical issue, but a societal challenge that touches every community, and one that the Government is keenly aware of and working with society and partners to address, he said on Sept 5 at Dementia Singapore’s 35th Anniversary Gala Dinner.

Keppel, through its philanthropic arm Keppel Care Foundation, pledged $1 million over the next three years at the event to support Dementia Singapore and its services.

Mr Shanmugam said the Government is focused on prevention, early detection and comprehensive support of the condition.

Many of Singapore’s health initiatives like

Healthier SG and Age Well SG

aim to fight some of the risk factors for dementia, like physical inactivity, obesity, and infrequent social contact, he said. Promoting healthier lifestyles across the population could reduce the incidence of dementia in future generations, he added.

Long-term care services and grants have also been enhanced, some of which were announced in Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s Budget speech in February.

The Home Caregiving Grant, for instance, will provide more support to more caregivers with their caregiving expenses, said Mr Shanmugam.

The Ministry of Health has also broadened the range of support for caregivers and their loved ones, and expanded the number of available places in dementia daycare.

Enhancing home personal care services also improves custodial support, and allows caregivers to take breaks, he added.

Mr Shanmugam, who is also Coordinating Minister for National Security, said the community is fortunate to have dedicated partners like Dementia Singapore, that provide services for patients of the condition and strengthen public awareness of dementia.

The social service agency launched its Our Getai community roadshows in 2023 in mature neighbourhoods, such as Marine Parade and Ang Mo Kio, to spread the word about its services and programmes.

The roadshows have since reached more than 155,000 online viewers, and more than 1,200 residents in person.

“You are meeting people where they are, giving them information they need, in a way that resonates culturally,” said Mr Shanmugam.

The donation from Keppel on Sept 5 will support Dementia Singapore’s various programmes and services, such as its helpline, support for caregivers of those with dementia, and an empowerment programme for those with the condition.

Half of Keppel’s $1 million donation will subsidise attendance fees for eligible clients at all four of Dementia Singapore’s New Horizons Centres.

Dementia Singapore chief executive Jason Foo said: “What began decades ago still remains a complex journey. There is still a lot to do and a long way to go. But whatever the challenge we have ahead, I’m confident that Dementia Singapore will continue to lead by example.”

He added that the charity will explore the possibilities of artificial intelligence, and continue to search for new therapies and models of care.

Keppel chief executive Loh Chin Hua said that with the ageing population in Singapore, the need for dementia care services continues to grow.

Keppel’s donation will allow Dementia Singapore to continue its work and expand the access to support for members of the public faced with the challenges of dementia and dementia care, he added.