More households to benefit from programme to enhance seniors’ safety

SINGAPORE – An additional 100,000 households will benefit from the changes in age criterion for the Enhancement for Active Seniors (EASE) programme. The programme was launched in 2012 to enhance the safety and comfort of seniors living in HDB flats.

As of August 1, the age criterion for EASE has been lowered from 70 years old to 65 years old. For those who require assistance in daily living, the age criterion has been further lowered to 60 to 64 years old.

In addition, the scope of works has been extended to cover a second toilet within the flat. So if seniors opt for it, HDB will carry out slip-resistant treatment to the floor tiles and install grab bars for their second toilet.

Minister for National Development Khaw Boon Wan shared this in a written reply to Dr Lee Bee Wah, who asked about the status of the review of the EASE programme. Mr Khaw said the review has been completed. He added that for families with special needs members who do not meet the age criterion, HDB will consider their requests and approve them if the needs are justified. CHANNEL NEWSASIA