IF THE Government continues to push back the official retirement age based on life expectancy, we will see more retirees being unable to enjoy their retirement.
Retirement is when one enjoys what one wants to do, without any financial restrictions.
Instead of pushing back the retirement age, one needs to plan ahead and stay healthy.
The Government can help in many ways.
First, the Government could do more to assist people in achieving financial freedom through their Central Provident Fund (CPF) savings and CPF Life schemes.
Second, when it comes to affordable housing to provide retirees with roofs over their heads, schemes such as reverse mortgages should be made attractive and easy to carry out.
Third, health insurance should be made affordable and available to all. It is heartening to note the Government's push in this area.
Next, the Government could also do more to provide places for social interaction for retirees.
This includes providing a better network for social activities, which are free or affordably priced.
Lastly, the Government could do more for those who choose to stay at home to look after their children or are forced to stay at home because of health reasons.
Tax rebates for these groups would be helpful, as looking after our newer generation is also a contribution to the country's economy.
Home-based medical help should also be made available and affordable.
I hope the Government takes into consideration people's health and physical condition, and balance these with life expectancy, when reviewing the retirement age.
Leong Kok Seng
