EY urges more comprehensive coverage under Pioneer Generation Package

Benefits should also be extended to other seniors.

The government should consider tweaking the Pioneer Generation Package to provide a more comprehensive and holistic coverage for seniors.

In its 2015 Budget wishlist, EY highlighted that instead of just focusing on physical health, the package must also address socio-emotional and mental needs of the pioneer generation.

“For example, senior citizens particularly those with limited family support, may need home visits and mental activities to keep them emotionally healthy and socially engaged,” said Mildred Tan, Managing Director, Ernst & Young Advisory.

“Only senior citizens aged 65 and above in 2014 qualify for the Pioneer Generation Package. In addition to the benefits offered under the Pioneer package, help for this group, in the form of elderly-friendly transport facilities such as making buses and trains more wheelchair friendly would be welcomed. Such assistance should also be extended to other senior citizens who fall outside the Pioneer package, such as those aged between 60 – 64 years old who may no longer be able to walk or work due to chronic medical conditions,” she added.