Ageing, alone and silent: Why men 60 and above are Singapore’s most at-risk group

“If you don’t spend time that is for nurturing your own hobbies, nurturing relationships, you’re going to face an empty four walls when you retire because you didn’t invest right in that preparation for retirement,” she said.

Declining health can add to the strain as chronic illness, pain, disability and reduced mobility may lead to a loss of independence and a diminished sense of purpose.

Dr Surej John, senior consultant and head of psychiatry at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, said physical illness could increase suicide risk when combined with depression, loneliness, bereavement or financial stress.

“Chronic pain, disability, frailty, sensory impairment and progressive illnesses can lead to loss of independence, social isolation and a diminished sense of purpose,” he said.

Experts also warned that living with family does not necessarily protect an older person from loneliness.

Joseph’s father lived with him after retirement but rarely socialised outside his daily routine.

He declined invitations to join activities at a community centre despite Joseph’s efforts to help him meet new people.

Experts said older men may also be less likely to speak openly about emotional distress because many grew up with expectations that discouraged vulnerability.

Depression may instead appear through poor sleep, loss of appetite, low energy, forgetfulness, physical complaints or a sudden change in behaviour.

Families should take seriously comments such as “I’m a burden” or “There is no point anymore”, as well as signs including social withdrawal, neglect of personal care and losing interest in familiar activities.

Experts said programmes built around practical activities, hobbies and shared skills may help older men connect more naturally than traditional support groups.

Activities such as carpentry, bicycle repair, volunteering and mentoring can provide opportunities for older men to build friendships while retaining a sense of purpose.

Singapore’s experience may also carry broader relevance as neighbouring Malaysia faces its own rapidly ageing population.

The Department of Statistics Malaysia said the proportion of Malaysians aged 65 and above rose to 8.4 per cent this year from 8.0 per cent last year.

Twelve Malaysian states have reached ageing status after the proportion of residents aged 65 and above exceeded seven per cent of their populations.

Perak recorded the country’s highest proportion of older persons at 10.8 per cent, followed by Sarawak and Kedah at 9.7 per cent each, while Penang and Perlis both stood at 8.8 per cent.

The government has designated ageing as a key pillar under the 13th Malaysia Plan and is identifying a pilot project to address the fiscal, care and wider challenges arising from an older population.

“That is why we must address the challenges of an ageing population through a more holistic approach so that it does not become a burden,” Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said yesterday.