Singapore’s Elderly Care Innovations: Fostering an Inclusive City with Technology and Compassion

Abstract

Singapore is experiencing rapid growth in its elderly population, prompting various sectors to prioritize addressing this issue through the development of dementia-friendly cities. This study examines the design process of a Dementia-Friendly Community innovation using a qualitative research approach, employing in-depth interviews with executives and community members in a case study to extract lessons learned, mechanisms, and success factors in promoting participation in community management. The findings reveal that the creation of the Dementia-Friendly Community innovation was initiated by the Nee Soon Town Council, which adopted policies from the Singaporean government and engaged the private sector, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and civil society in both design and implementation. This innovation serves as a good example for other cities preparing to enter an aging society. Its key success factors are rooted in the application of the CARE Model—Community Engagement, Accessibility and Infrastructure, Responsive Services, and Empowerment through Participation. The project highlights the significant role of the community in designing and developing dementia-friendly environments and public services, ensuring public participation at every stage from design and development to evaluation, guided by the principles of Citizen-Centric Governance and the commitment to “No one left behind.”