Programmes to Increase Participation Rates of Elderly Men at Active Ageing Centres

72 Mr Edward Chia Bing Hui asked the Minister for Health (a) whether there are dedicated programmes conducted by Active Ageing Centres that cater to elderly men so as to increase their participation rates in the activities conducted; and (b) whether the Ministry has worked with operators of Senior Activity Centres to better understand why elderly men are less likely to frequent these centres.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: Indeed, elderly men are generally more driven by specific interests when deciding whether to take part in activities, unlike women who may choose to participate for social reasons. We also observed that they also prefer activities that give them a sense of agency. To cater to this, some Active Ageing Centres (AACs) empower elderly men to initiate and take the lead to organise programmes that they are interested in, such as guitar playing or playing pool. AACs also encourage their male seniors to take up volunteering opportunities, such as delivering meals or checking in and befriending other seniors, to give them a useful role in the community. More AACs have also started offering communal dining which draws a good mix of male and female participants, enabling them to form social connections with the larger community.

The Ministry of Health will continue to support and expand these activities to encourage active ageing in the community.