News
October 06, 2025
‘Keep elderly folk in mind for urban renewal plans’
Experts, 1Razak Mansion residents say strategy should include meeting ageing population's needs. Read full story
**‘Keep elderly folk in mind for urban renewal plans’**
As Singapore embarks on numerous urban renewal projects to modernize and enhance the city landscape, experts and residents of 1Razak Mansion are urging planners to prioritize the needs of the elderly population. They emphasize that these transformations should not inadvertently displace or disadvantage senior citizens who have long called these neighborhoods home.
The call comes amidst concerns that rapid development can often overlook the specific requirements of older residents, potentially leading to social isolation and a diminished quality of life. Residents of 1Razak Mansion, a public housing estate with a significant proportion of elderly inhabitants, are particularly keen to ensure their voices are heard in the planning process.
Experts highlight several key areas that require careful consideration. Affordable and accessible healthcare services are paramount, ensuring that seniors can easily access medical care without facing significant financial burdens or transportation challenges. Similarly, the availability of convenient and safe transportation options is crucial for enabling elderly residents to maintain their independence and connect with the wider community. This includes well-maintained pedestrian walkways, sheltered bus stops, and accessible public transport.
Beyond physical infrastructure, social support networks play a vital role in the well-being of the elderly. Urban renewal plans should incorporate spaces for community interaction, such as senior activity centers and communal gardens, where older residents can engage in social activities and build relationships. Maintaining existing social connections is crucial to avoid feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can have detrimental effects on mental and physical health.
Furthermore, the design of new housing and amenities must be age-friendly. This includes features such as ramps, grab bars, and non-slip flooring to prevent falls and promote mobility. Universal design principles should be adopted to ensure that all residents, regardless of age or ability, can navigate their surroundings with ease and dignity.
The stakeholders are pushing for a more inclusive approach to urban renewal, one that actively involves elderly residents in the planning process. By understanding their needs and concerns, planners can create vibrant and age-friendly communities that benefit all residents, ensuring that Singapore's modernization efforts do not come at the expense of its senior citizens. Ultimately, they believe that thoughtful planning can create a more equitable and sustainable urban environment where everyone can thrive.
As Singapore embarks on numerous urban renewal projects to modernize and enhance the city landscape, experts and residents of 1Razak Mansion are urging planners to prioritize the needs of the elderly population. They emphasize that these transformations should not inadvertently displace or disadvantage senior citizens who have long called these neighborhoods home.
The call comes amidst concerns that rapid development can often overlook the specific requirements of older residents, potentially leading to social isolation and a diminished quality of life. Residents of 1Razak Mansion, a public housing estate with a significant proportion of elderly inhabitants, are particularly keen to ensure their voices are heard in the planning process.
Experts highlight several key areas that require careful consideration. Affordable and accessible healthcare services are paramount, ensuring that seniors can easily access medical care without facing significant financial burdens or transportation challenges. Similarly, the availability of convenient and safe transportation options is crucial for enabling elderly residents to maintain their independence and connect with the wider community. This includes well-maintained pedestrian walkways, sheltered bus stops, and accessible public transport.
Beyond physical infrastructure, social support networks play a vital role in the well-being of the elderly. Urban renewal plans should incorporate spaces for community interaction, such as senior activity centers and communal gardens, where older residents can engage in social activities and build relationships. Maintaining existing social connections is crucial to avoid feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can have detrimental effects on mental and physical health.
Furthermore, the design of new housing and amenities must be age-friendly. This includes features such as ramps, grab bars, and non-slip flooring to prevent falls and promote mobility. Universal design principles should be adopted to ensure that all residents, regardless of age or ability, can navigate their surroundings with ease and dignity.
The stakeholders are pushing for a more inclusive approach to urban renewal, one that actively involves elderly residents in the planning process. By understanding their needs and concerns, planners can create vibrant and age-friendly communities that benefit all residents, ensuring that Singapore's modernization efforts do not come at the expense of its senior citizens. Ultimately, they believe that thoughtful planning can create a more equitable and sustainable urban environment where everyone can thrive.
Category:
Politics