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Age does not dictate job competence

Life expectancy is increasing worldwide due to better living standards and medical care. Under the circumstances, the old concept of retiring at a particular age has little scientific support. (“Raise the retirement age?”; Talking Point)

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Krishna Aravindakshan Pillai

Life expectancy is increasing worldwide due to better living standards and medical care. Under the circumstances, the old concept of retiring at a particular age has little scientific support. (“Raise the retirement age?”; Talking Point)

Today, different countries have different retirement ages. One of the merits of a retirement age of 60 is that it benefits younger job seekers. This is valid only in countries with high unemployment.

We cannot apply this logic to countries with labour shortages and an ageing population, such as Scandinavian countries, Japan and Singapore. The idea that one cannot perform one’s duties upon reaching the age of 60 has no scientific justification.

Philosopher Bertrand Russell was healthy and active in his 90s; former Israeli President Shimon Peres performed his duties well at age 90; India’s Morarji Desai became Prime Minister at age 81; and Mr Lee Kuan Yew, at 91, has been going strong.

These examples show that a person does not become incompetent at any particular age. Equally, someone in his 20s is not necessarily more useful than someone in his 70s.

Scientific management, a school of management thought, has advanced such that it is possible to list the skill set required in a particular job. It is also possible to test a person and measure his abilities. Be it in the public or private sector, we can select people to fit the job so that productivity is enhanced for society’s benefit.

We also know that young people can succumb to illness. Alcohol, drugs, tobacco and unhealthy food can spoil their health. Or they can be victims of stress and become unproductive due to emotional problems.

Singapore is unique as a country committed to quality, meritocracy and equal opportunity, irrespective of age, race or religion.

It is time to take a bold new look at our labour shortage. A healthy, obedient man at age 70 may be a better choice for a job than an obese and undisciplined young man with ambitions.

Giving equal opportunities to senior citizens, subject to medical tests, may also encourage healthy lifestyles, which would reduce overall medical costs in society.

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