When it comes to longevity, few places in the world have seen such a drastic jump in life expectancy as Singapore.
A child born in the country in 1960 was likely to live, at that time, to 65 years of age. In contrast, a child born there today can have a life expectancy of more than 86 years, according to estimates.
Additionally, the number of centenarians doubled during the 2010s and 2020s.
This huge jump in longevity, driven largely by government policies and investments, was enough for the country to be named the sixth “blue zone” in the world, in August 2023.
Although some demographers recently questioned its accuracy, the term blue zones was coined by journalist National Geographic Dan Buettner, who said he identified regions where people lived longer, healthier lives largely due to a combination of culture, lifestyle, diet and community.
Singapore was the first new blue zone in decades (dubbed “Blue Zone 2.0” by Buettner), joining Sardinia in Italy; Okinawa in Japan; the community of Loma Linda in the United States; the Ikaria Island in Greece and the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica.
A healthy transition
But it is not just the quantity but also the quality of life that Singapore residents appreciate.
We spoke to some of them to understand what policies and practices make their lives healthier and happier, and what they recommend to others coming to Singapore in search of a longer life.
“Growing up here, I have seen firsthand the transformation in community health awareness“, tells us Firdaus Syazwani, director of the financial advice blog Dollar Bureau.
“Heavy taxes on cigarettes and alcohol, along with strict bans on public smoking, not only improve individual health, but also public spaces, making them more welcoming and clean. No more secondhand smoke!”
However, Syazwani was surprised by Singapore’s designation as a blue zone, even despite the large amount of sugar, salt and coconut milk used in local dishes. That too is changing, albeit slowly.
“Given our local cuisine’s penchant for richer ingredients, the Health Promotion Board has initiatives to encourage healthier dietary choices among the residents,” he explains.
“Measures such as mandatory nutrition labeling and reducing sugar content in beverages have made a notable difference in public health awareness and choices,” he notes.
“Although it is not yet known exactly how effective this initiative is, I personally tend to shy away from sugary drinks when I see the labels.”
Singapore’s healthcare system has also received global praise, both for the quality of care and its ability to keep costs stable.
The 2023 Legatum Prosperity Index ranked the country as the best in the world when it comes to the health of citizens and their ability to access medical care.
Singapore offers universal health coverage and has a mix of private services and savings funds to help cover out-of-pocket costs.
Green spaces
But not only health care influences residents living longer lives.
Strong public transportation facilitates mobility, and the priority of keeping the country clean gives residents a sense of security and calm.
“Initiatives that prioritize The seamless integration of parks, gardens and nature reserves into the urban landscape have earned Singapore the reputation of being a ‘garden city’” explains Charu Kokate, partner at the company Safdie Architects, which led emblematic projects such as the Sky Habitat residential towers and the Jewel Changi airport.
“After living in Singapore for more than 15 years, I continue to be impressed by the city’s meticulous planning,” says Kokate.
“While the laws may be strict, their focus on sustainabilitythe efficient use of land and the incorporation of green spaces into urban life are extraordinary,” he says.
One of his favorite places is Botanical garden. Located in the center of the city, it is the only tropical garden recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
“Its remarkable collection of orchids and its focus on plant research and conservation make it a paradise for nature lovers, families and tourists seeking peace and beauty,” says Kokate.
Public parks also serve as a hub for the community, a factor that all researchers from longevity agree is essential to living a long and healthy life.
“From young adults to seniors they exercise regularlywhich is facilitated by public parks, workout corners and fitness classes that are easily accessible throughout the city,” says Syazwani.
For those considering moving to Singapore, embracing that community spirit and lifestyle is key.
Syazwani recommends East Coast Park, a stretch of beach that has plenty of picnic options and spaces to walk while enjoying the sea breeze.
Strict laws
But while the quality of life may be high in Singapore, so is the price.
The country is often listed as one of the most expensive places in the world to live and the Mercer company ranks it second in cost of living after Hong Kong.
The population is diverse, with immigration from many parts of the world, and the government prioritizes a strong sense of social cohesion, enforced through sometimes controversial legislation, especially those related to combating crime, which includes corporal punishment such as caning and capital punishment by hanging.
The State also has strict laws and sanctions against activities such as littering, smoking in public, taking drugs and even jaywalking.
And although many criticize these regulations, arguing that they threaten freedom, others believe that they help keep the country a safer and more beautiful place to live.
“The government’s policies are aligned with the needs of the population, focusing on improving the general quality of life, supporting economic stability and maintaining social harmony,” says Kokate.
“In addition, political stability plays a key role in creating an environment that encourages business investment, economic growth and social cohesion,” he indicates.
The country celebrates its diversity, especially through its food scene and world-renowned annual festivals, from Chinese New Year to Deepavali (Diwali) and the International Arts Festival.
“The city has something for everyone, regardless of age,” says Kokate.
“The multicultural society encompasses a wide range of traditions, creating a rich and vibrant cultural experience that enhances the stay of both visitors and expatriates.”
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