Ageing human body has limits as engine for S’pore’s growth

The Health Minister made the point that despite the “silver tsunami”, older workers can learn and work longer, while workplaces can adapt and employers’ mindset can shift. (“Active, healthy seniors an engine for S’pore’s growth: Gan”; March 20)

It is true that ageing is not all about disability. But are we not overplaying the extent to which reinventing potential can stretch the human body and mind, or being overly optimistic about ability? National planning must be done with the mindset that there are huge limitations to what is achievable and workable.

Better preventive healthcare may, and the operative word is “may”, provide for less wear and tear, negating some issues associated with ageing. But there is a limit to what our body and mind can do. As organisms, we decay.

Engaging in pep talks that raise hopes and spending enormous amounts to accommodate older workers, only to find out later that it was wishful thinking, is not in anyone’s interest. The “silver tsunami” is on its way and requires planning for extra healthcare, housing and more. This is already an indicator of how much must be devoted to changes in physical needs alone.

Let us, therefore, plan with an equal measure of realism and optimism, and not allow for unrealistic expectations, which would be more damaging as the goalposts are moved endlessly.