Singaporeans’ perceptions and preparations for retirement: A crosscultural inquiry

Abstract

The perceptions and lived experiences of approximately 100 workers in Singapore were captured in 1996. The aim was to document their views on preparation for retirement, factors which impinge on the choice of plans, difficulties faced in doing so, and lastly expectations of life after 60. A qualitative methodology, namely focus group discussions, was used. Thirteen were conducted over a period of six months across the three major ethnic groups, i.e., the Chinese, Malays and Indians. Each of these were further sub-divided into higher- and lower-income groups. The findings were triangulated with quantitative data extracted from the 1990 Census and a representative survey which focused on the assets and economic profile of middle aged persons (aged 50–59 years) in Singapore. The results highlight the prevailing pressures on the older workforce due to rising cost of living, increasing medical costs, and upgrading of skills required to keep up with changing technology in the workplace. Interesting cultural and gender differences emerged. Author Mehta discovered that, on the whole, this cohort felt that without support from children, their own assets and financial possessions would be inadequate for old age. Greater need for public education on retirement planning, with special focus on women, was indicated.