SINGAPORE – In Toa Payoh, seniors who are frail or living alone will now get a weekly knock on the door from volunteers young and old, who drop by for a chat, offer help with errands or bring them on outings.
Under the new Project Silver Circle, launched on May 9 during a community visit by Health Minister Ong Ye Kung, volunteers will identify such seniors and befriend them, providing them with companionship through various activities.
Volunteers will work with partners like active ageing centres and the Silver Generation Office “to take them out on things like grocery runs and just your regular breakfast”, said Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC MP Cai Yinzhou, who oversees the Toa Payoh Central ward.
Beyond regular check-ins, the programme aims to reconnect seniors with community life, encouraging them to step out, build friendships and participate in active living programmes.
Mr Cai said that by 2030, one in four Singaporeans will be above the age of 65. In Toa Payoh Central, however, half of the residents are already above the age of 50.
