Inter-generational co-living space in Henderson houses seniors and youth

When Ms Margaret Ho started chemotherapy treatment in May, she moved out of her Ghim Moh flat, where she had been living with her daughter.

- Chin Soo Fang

She checked into Commune@Henderson to have home-cooked meals and basic healthcare.

The facility - located at the former Henderson Primary School - is the first inter-generational co-living concept introduced by the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) that houses seniors and youth.

The space, which officially opened in July, supports seniors who prefer an independent living environment with lifestyle amenities, while also encouraging bonding and social engagement.

With her daughter travelling often for work and Ms Ho's low immunity, the arrangement was the most ideal for the 69-year-old retired bank executive.

"I find the staff very accommodating. I can go to the market to buy ingredients and ask them to cook for me," said Ms Ho, who is one of six seniors living in the facility.

Among them is Ms Ho's 90-year-old mother, who moved into a two-bedder unit with her on Aug 23. They pay $6,500 monthly for the unit, which they will stay in until October, when Ms Ho's treatment ends.

Commune@Henderson is run by TSTAP, a joint venture between TS Group and The Assembly Place (TAP).

It is among different housing models that Singapore is exploring to help seniors age gracefully within the community. This was a point also raised by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in his National Day Rally speech on Aug 17 when he announced the launch of Age Well Neighbourhoods, starting with Toa Payoh.

Under this scheme, seniors will have more support to age at home with dignity, with access to services such as home fixes, health checks and social activities.

Operators have already started a few options for seniors, ranging from living in one's home to staying in a nursing home.

Community Care Apartments such as Harmony Village @ Bukit Batok combine senior-friendly features with integrated care and social services. These include basic health checks, home fixes and 24-hour emergency response.