Older Singaporeans Seeking Mental Health Support in Line With Recent Uptick in Retrenchments among Older Workers

Dr Wan Rizal asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health in light of the recent uptick in retrenchments, particularly among older workers, whether the Ministry has observed a corresponding increase in older Singaporeans seeking mental health support, especially among those balancing employment with caregiving and parenting responsibilities.

My response will also address a similar question raised by Dr Wan Rizal filed for a subsequent Sitting. If the Member is satisfied with the response, he may wish to withdraw the question from that Sitting.

The proportion of new clients aged 50 to 59 and above who sought help at Community Outreach Teams, Community Intervention Teams and Polyclinic Mental Health Clinics has not increased between 2023 and 2025. Data for 2026 is not yet available. It is also our understanding that while the number of retrenchments has risen, it is not so significant that it will change healthcare demand.