For over a decade, Madam Betty Tan maintained a steady routine working as a cleaner at the Tsao Foundation, a social service organisation supporting seniors' well-being. Upon retiring in 2022 to care for her 92-year-old mother, she anticipated a less hectic life but found herself struggling with long stretches of unstructured time. "I had no more routine," the 77-year-old recalled.

To regain a sense of purpose, Madam Tan began volunteering weekly at the Tsao Foundation's Hua Mei Active Ageing Centre, assisting with attendance and outings for seniors.

A Well-being of the Singapore Elderly (WiSE) study by the Institute of Mental Health reported that depression among seniors in Singapore increased from 3.7% (one in 27) in 2013 to 4.4% (one in 23) in 2023. Meanwhile, a 2025 AIA Live Better study found that half of Singaporean residents planned to continue working after retirement.

Experts emphasize that work provides more than income; it offers structure, social interaction, intellectual stimulation, and identity. "Cycling or walking to the office and talking to co-workers – that's a big source of physical, cognitive and social stimulation," noted mental health professionals.

Dr Tan from Hua Mei Clinic observed, "For people whose sense of identity is very much tied to being successful, performing well, meeting targets or bringing money home, that's their main sense of achievement and purpose in life."

Ms Loh Yan Zhu, head of counselling and coaching at the Tsao Foundation, highlighted that "the real protective factor is not employment itself but having purpose."

Mr Hoon, another retiree, credits his smooth transition to habits developed well before retiring in late 2024, underscoring the importance of preparing mentally and socially for life after work.

These insights suggest that retirement, often seen as freedom, can bring significant psychological adjustments, making the pursuit of meaningful activities crucial for seniors' mental health.

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