Budget 2025 debate: Rachel Ong on mental health challenges faced by seniors

In parliament on Thursday (Feb 27), MP Rachel Ong called for immediate action to address the growing mental health challenges faced by seniors in Singapore, noting that the correlation between mental health struggles and suicide is well-documented. Ms Ong pointed out that many seniors face loss, grief and significant societal changes as they age. Yet they are much less likely than younger people to seek help due to continuing stigma. Digital isolation and the rise of scams targeting the elderly are exacerbating the problem, she said. Ms Ong called for strategies tailored to seniors at different stages, starting with the "younger" group in their 60s and 70s. Her proposals included mental health preparation for the transition out of active work, strengthening community-based support networks and senior-led initiatives, destigmatising mental health issues through culturally sensitive, language-specific and community-driven initiatives, and tackling scam-induced psychological distress.