SINGAPORE: "Don't make abandoning parents in old folks homes a trend"

. SINGAPORE / Channel News Asia / February 28, 2009 By Valarie Tan Singapore's Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong has called on Singaporeans not to make abandoning elderly parents in old folks' homes a trend. This comes after Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan suggested in Parliament recently that cost-conscious Singaporeans could consider staying in nursing homes in Johor where it is cheaper. The comment drew strong response from some quarters. Mr Goh's message to Singaporeans is to honour the elderly, not just out of respect, but also because of what he calls the "silver tsunami". SM Goh said: "In twenty years' time, it is estimated that our median age would go up to about 50. Just imagine, you walk into any housing estate and one in two persons you come across will be over 50 years old." Besides encouraging seniors to stay active by working as long as they can and companies to move away from a fixed retirement age, Mr Goh said younger Singaporeans must also do their part. "Many MPs have come across sad stories of children throwing their aged parents out of their homes because they are viewed as a burden. Though not widespread, there are also instances of children abandoning their parents in old folks' homes. These are isolated cases but we must ensure they do not become a trend," added Mr Goh. SM Goh also honoured some 20 elder devotees on Saturday who contributed generously to the Sri Lankaramaya Temple. - CNA/vm