Singapore prisons adapt as inmate population ages, 1 in 6 aged 60 or older

Older ex-offenders also face declining health and reduced independence.

To help Cornerstone Community Services volunteers better understand these challenges, they undergo simulations that mimic declining vision, hearing loss, reduced dexterity and even medication sorting.

Ms Lew said the aim is to understand each person’s circumstances rather than assume what help they require.

“Every elderly wants to (have) their dignity. Dignity is still important to them,” she said.

Former pastor and prison volunteer Linda Ng said many elderly ex-offenders return to communities where they have few people to rely on.

“Social isolation is so common,” she said.

“They’re like forgotten people, and it’s sad. I really think that we have a role to play.”

SPS’ ASP Ngo hopes that society can treat elderly inmates with more understanding.

She said: “There’s still a bit of stigma, or there’s a bit of fear when you realise that, oh, this person might have abused drugs before, or at first glance, he has a lot of tattoos on his body.”