Exploring the Challenges Faced by Seniors in a Digitally Advancing World
“People say technology was supposed to make life easier,” Mr. Teh remarked with a wide smile. Originally from Malaysia, Mr. Teh held various odd jobs throughout his twenties, including several years as a telephone switchboard operator in the 1970s. Following the death of his parents, he lived with his older sister until rising tensions prompted him to seek alternative living arrangements. For the past two decades, Mr. Teh has resided alone in his rental flat in the Kampong Glam area, having never married.
Individuals like Mr. Teh are more prevalent than one might assume. Approximately a quarter of the over 200,000 people living alone in Singapore are seniors. In 2016, around 47,000 individuals aged 65 and older lived independently.
“Now with COVID-19, life has become very challenging. So much has changed,” he expressed, sipping hot tea from a clear glass mug as we sat in his usual spot on the upper floor of Golden Mile Food Centre, just a stone’s throw from the Kampong Glam community center.
For many seniors, including Mr. Teh, daily routines have become a lifeline. “I come here to relax, see who’s around, maybe read the newspaper,” he shared.
Mr. Teh represents countless elderly residents who, prior to the pandemic, could often be found socializing at community centers and void decks. Now, they gather in small groups at their favorite coffee stalls, only parting when they spot a social distancing ambassador in red attire, quickly reconvening after the moment passes.
“Last time, I had a disagreement with the man at the counter,” he chuckled, pointing towards the community center behind us.
The Kampong Glam Community Centre plays a crucial role for local seniors, serving both as a social hub and a source of logistical support. Many elderly residents in the area still have low digital literacy, relying on the community center for essential services, such as booking vaccination appointments in a traditional manner.
“He kept telling me he couldn’t book my appointment because I didn’t bring my IC,” he recalled with frustration.
For many like Mr. Teh, accessing vital government services, such as online vaccination appointments, has been a daunting task. Prior to the government’s implementation of walk-in vaccinations for seniors, the process of securing his shot was anything but straightforward.
“Even checking my CPF requires help,” he joked.
A Struggle with Technology
According to the 2017/2018 Household Expenditure Survey, only 45% of households living in 1- and 2-room HDB flats had internet access, and a mere 31% owned a personal computer. Mr. Teh is among many seniors who have struggled with the digitization of government services. Moreover, just 58% of individuals over 60 use the internet. For Mr. Teh and others who lack digital skills, the increasing reliance on technology can hinder rather than help.
His aversion to technology is evident. He recounted an incident where he mistakenly transferred money to the wrong bank account using an ATM, leading to a painstaking process of reversing the transaction.
“Now people tell me to use Paylah for everything. I don’t want to!” he exclaimed, shuddering at the thought.
Singapore frequently ranks as one of the most cashless countries in the world, with more public agencies adopting digital payment systems. Unsurprisingly, the idea of a fully cashless society is daunting for Mr. Teh.
Fear of Going Outdoors
Our conversation soon shifted to the social repercussions of COVID-19.
“Now, many of my friends are afraid to go out,” he lamented.
For someone like Mr. Teh, meeting friends in person was typically the highlight of his day.
“Some I haven’t seen in ages,” his voice trailed off.
Despite relatively high vaccination rates among seniors in Singapore, he noted a noticeable decline in his friends’ willingness to spend time outdoors.
“Every day, there are about 3,000 new cases! Everyone’s scared. Better to stay home,” he stated.
Although COVID-19-related deaths remain low in Singapore, with a mortality rate of 0.2%, this statistic offers little comfort to Mr. Teh, who is on the cusp of the most vulnerable age group. Despite the easing of restrictions, many older individuals continue to avoid public spaces out of fear of exposure.
For those living alone, this has led to a host of new challenges. Aging alone in Singapore has long been associated with an increased risk of mental health issues. According to the Samaritans of Singapore, 2020 saw the highest number of elderly suicides on record, totaling 452 cases.
When asked for his thoughts on the matter, Mr. Teh looked visibly uncomfortable.
“It’s not good to discuss such things,” he replied quietly, pausing to stir his tea.
Upon further questioning, his demeanor shifted as he recounted his experiences during the Circuit Breaker period.
“There were days I stayed indoors for too long. Without anyone to talk to, it felt terrible. Life felt pointless,” he admitted.
During the initial lockdown, while younger people complained about not being able to enjoy dining out or making Dalgona coffee, the digitally illiterate, like Mr. Teh, faced far more significant challenges.
“Sometimes I can’t sleep. I have bad dreams. Bad thoughts,” he confided.
“How long can I watch TV for?”
While Mr. Teh managed to endure the lockdown without severe consequences, many others were not as fortunate. Symptoms of depression among the elderly are rising, likely exacerbated by the disruption of once-reliable social support systems. With limited means of staying connected and their solitary lifestyles, seniors like Mr. Teh are increasingly at risk.
Such social interactions are vital in combatting both depression and mortality among the elderly. With no family members to support them through restrictions, some seniors find themselves trapped in their single-room flats, with little to engage their minds.
“All day, I sit at home and watch TV. How long can I do that?” Mr. Teh lamented.
Overall, elderly satisfaction with life has significantly declined as the COVID-19 situation deteriorated last year. Although the government has made strides in protecting Singapore against COVID-19’s worst impacts, fears of falling ill still loom large for many seniors.
Numerous struggles remain unnoticed and unresolved, made worse by the unavailability of digital support services. The increased loneliness and lack of interpersonal interaction severely detract from elderly mental health, leaving many without a glimmer of hope for improvement.
The Frustrations of Digital Literacy Programs
When asked about attending digital literacy workshops, Mr. Teh scoffed. “There are too many new things. They expect me to learn it all too quickly!”
Digital literacy programs, organized by the IMDA and the People’s Association, aim to help seniors like Mr. Teh address basic technological issues, from sending emails to saving photos on their smartphones.
However, Mr. Teh expressed frustration, stating that these programs often provide solutions without teaching participants how to solve problems independently.
“Sometimes, the volunteers can be quite impatient. They forget we’re not like them,” he remarked. “We’re older, and learning takes us more time!”
For many connected Singaporeans, daily tasks can be accomplished with the tap of a smartphone. We have access to transportation, food delivery, communication, and endless entertainment at our fingertips.
Although the smartphone penetration rate for individuals over 75 reached 60% in 2020, many seniors like Mr. Teh, who struggle to adapt to a digital lifestyle, are at risk of being left behind.
Tackling Social Isolation
Despite the grim outlook for isolated seniors during COVID-19, initiatives have been implemented to support individuals like Mr. Teh. Programs such as the Ministry of Health’s Eldercare Centres and the Silver Generation Office aim to provide crucial social support for Singapore’s aging population, including active aging programs, befriending initiatives, and referrals to care services.
Additionally, numerous charities in Singapore, including the Red Cross, Fei Yue, and the Tsao Foundation, work to serve seniors and monitor individuals at risk of isolation.
These organizations typically use phone calls and alarm systems installed in flats to ensure that seniors’ needs are met. Regular home visits and doorstep services aim to alleviate the burdens of social isolation.
“Sometimes I enjoy just chatting with the staff. It helps break the monotony of my day,” Mr. Teh noted. “It makes a difference.”
In 2020, the government launched the SG Digital Office to accelerate digital adoption among seniors. The initiative recruited around 1,000 ambassadors, including volunteers and full-time staff, aiming to enhance the digital skills of 100,000 seniors by March 2021.
When asked if the office had reached out to him in the past year, Mr. Teh replied, “I’ve never heard of this Digital Office. What is it?”
While significant efforts have been made to digitalize Singapore and transition to a ‘Smart Nation,’ the COVID-19 pandemic has revealed segments of the population who are disadvantaged by these changes. As Singapore’s population continues to age, the number of elderly citizens will likely increase.
As I concluded my interview with Mr. Teh, it struck me that he might be one of the fortunate ones, having navigated the worst of the pandemic relatively well, while countless others may never have their stories heard. Despite the numerous NGO and government programs aimed at assistance, isolated individuals in desperate need of support will continue to exist.
I couldn’t help but wonder if one day, I too might find myself in Mr. Teh’s situation, facing a digital world that feels completely foreign.
Finishing his tea with satisfaction, Mr. Teh collected his thoughts, exhaling deeply.
“Sometimes, I feel like people like me have been forgotten. You all can do so much that we cannot.” I nodded in silent agreement.
