A more holistic eldercare policy - rather than differentiating among health care, social care and housing - is needed in the long-term care sector. This was one of several insights shared in a new report commissioned by the Lien Foundation and developed by consultancy KPMG.

The report, titled An Uncertain Age: Reimagining Long-term Care in the 21st Century, is based on interviews with 46 experts in 14 countries, including Singapore, Japan, Australia and the United States. They were asked about trends and challenges in the eldercare sector, and asked to identify innovative solutions in the world.

Besides highlighting examples of best practices in other countries, the study also offered recommendations such as providing more training and support to informal caregivers, and having more innovative and sustainable funding models.

Lien Foundation chief executive Lee Poh Wah said: "Transitioning to eldercare can be a stressful and emotional journey for the elderly and their families... we need to focus on managing the ageing process with emphasis on well-being and happiness."