Singapore’s secret to long life lies in simple living, strong communities, and smart city planning.
Singapore is known for its strict rules. People must follow many laws. These rules keep the city safe and clean. For example, smoking is banned in many places. Drinking alcohol in public is limited. Driving too fast is not allowed. If people break these rules, they get fined or punished.
But Singapore is also known for something else. It is famous for how long its people live. The average age of people in Singapore is 85 years. This is one of the highest in the world. Many people wonder why Singaporeans live so long.
One man, Mr. Low Kok Yong, just turned 100 years old. When asked how he lived so long, his daughter, Tan Ai Fan, shared a secret. She said, “He lived a simple life. He slept well and loved his family. He did not want to live a fancy life. He did not care for expensive food. He liked normal things. He never felt lonely or bored.”
Most people in Singapore live in special homes called HDB flats. These are apartments built by the government. About 80% of Singaporeans live in these flats. They are not very fancy. But they are clean and cared for with love.
In these flats, many people live close together. They are not just neighbors. They are friends. The buildings are full of life. Every day, there are events or classes. People join to learn or meet others.
Mrs. Farida Flursheim and Mr. Che Moi Kiew live in such a flat. They like to do Pilates exercises. They say that moving their arms and legs keeps them young. Exercise helps them feel happy and less stressed.
Mrs. Farida says, “We all live here. There are shops downstairs. It is easy for us. There is a coffee shop and many places to eat.”
Singapore’s government plans the city to help people stay healthy. It does not leave things to chance. The city is made so people want to go outside and walk. In just ten minutes, anyone can find a park or a green place to relax.
The public buses and trains are good, cheap, and easy to use. Driving a car is very costly. The government spends a lot of money to build the city this way. This helps people stay healthy. It also lowers health care costs. This is the goal of the government.
At the National University of Singapore, there is a Center for Health Longevity. Scientists study how cities can help people live longer and better lives.
Professor Andrea Mayer works at the center. She said, “We think people make their own health choices. But they need some help to choose healthy things. In Singapore, we try to help people make better choices. We make healthy choices easier and better.”
Today, babies born in Singapore can expect to live to 85 years. Singapore is one of the top countries in the world for life length.
The secret is not just medicine. It is many things together. Simple living, good sleep, family love, and friends help. Easy access to parks and nature is important. Good public transport and smart city design also help.
People here do not need fancy food or luxury. They live simple lives. They stay active and meet others. This keeps their mind and body healthy.
Singapore shows us that good planning and care help people live long lives. It is not just about hospitals or doctors. It is about how we live every day.
By making healthy choices easy and fun, Singapore helps people stay strong. It builds safe and green spaces for everyone. It creates close communities that support each other.