Engaging Older Adults to Build Social Capital

Abstract

Countries are considering the healthcare implications as the proportion of older adults increases, including rising healthcare costs and resources needed as more adults want to "age in place" or continue living in the community. More in home resources and support services will be needed for older adults to continue living independently at homes. Older adults are an incredibly untapped resource with a continuing need to contribute to society and a willingness to help others. Older adults are working longer than ever before, so they have the potential to build their own social capital for meeting the needs of aging colleagues. This paper will explore the changing demographics of older adults globally, examine the capacity and potential of older adults for providing in home resources and supportive services for other adults in needs, and discuss the health policy implications of engaging older adults to build social capital. Singapore will be used as an example for illustrating how building social capital among older adults could have a positive impact on older adults and Singaporean society.