Why Singapore needs more parks and greenspaces 

A study showed that such spaces improve older adults’ social well-being.

Parks and green spaces are not only important for Singapore to achieve its green goals. It is also key to increasing the social well-being of its older population.

According to a recent study by SMU Centre for Research on Successful Ageing (ROSA), Singaporeans aged 58 to 78 should be encouraged to step out into green spaces.

“Parks and green spaces are especially important in ensuring the social well-being of older adults. This could be because such spaces afford older adults opportunities to interact with other members of the Community,” ROSA said.

The report added that when older adults have more amenities available within their neighbourhood, they feel more integrated within their communities and have more to contribute to their communities.

“As Singapore’s silver population comes of age, it’s more important than ever for us to step up efforts to help older adults feel like they are part of a community,” said Professor Paulin Straughan, director of ROSA.

About 400 parks and four nature reserves are under the care of the National Parks Board. Recreational and physical activities are welcomed in these spaces to encourage care and awareness of nature preservation.