Extensive support involving neighbours, friends remain important for the elderly

According to research by the SMU Centre for Research on Successful Ageing (ROSA), older adults have adapted to the challenges of the pandemic in novel ways, such as by starting online businesses to generate new sources of income or developing new exercise routines as working from home became the norm. Social support that extends beyond what is offered by family members, involving friends and neighbours, remains key to their well-being. SMU Dean of Students and Professor of Sociology (Practice) Paulin Straughan, who is also Director of ROSA, said that as Singapore moves into the endemic phase of Covid-19, it is important to take stock of what has been learnt so far to help older adults transition into the new phase.