For over a decade, Madam Betty Tan worked as a cleaner at the Tsao Foundation, a social service organisation aiding seniors in aging well. Upon retiring in 2022 to care for her 92-year-old mother, she found herself struggling with a lack of routine despite being busy with household chores and caregiving. “I had no more routine,” the 77-year-old recalled.

To fill the void, Madam Tan volunteers weekly at the Tsao Foundation’s Hua Mei Active Ageing Centre, assisting with activities 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% in 2013 to 4.4% 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 structure, social interaction, intellectual stimulation, and identity. Dr Tan from Hua Mei Clinic noted, “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.”

The real protective factor, however, is not employment itself but having purpose. Activities such as cycling or walking to the office and socialising with co-workers offer significant physical, cognitive, and social stimulation.

Ms Loh Yan Zhu, head of counselling and coaching at the Tsao Foundation, also highlighted the importance of finding new meaning post-retirement to support mental well-being.

Mr Hoon, another retiree, credits his smooth transition to habits developed well before retiring in late 2024, underscoring the value of preparation for life after work.

These insights reflect the complex emotional and psychological adjustments retirees face, emphasizing the need for purposeful engagement beyond traditional employment.

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