Why is it that the ‘elderly sick’ rather die, than to be a financial burden to their families?

I refer to the article “Straits Times avoids mentioning financial burden among elderly as a cause of increased suicides” (theonlinecitizen, Jul 30).

It states that “It was reported today (30 Jul) that the number of elderly committing suicide hit a record high last year (2017).

ST avoids talking about financial burden causing suicides

The Straits Times also reported the same story of the number of suicides among the elderly hitting record high.

However, it avoided mentioning financial burden and cost of living as one of the reasons for the increased elderly suicide rates altogether.

ST merely quoted some social service people mentioning other possible reasons for suicides like social isolation and loneliness.

Financial burden among elderly is a cause of suicides

However, SPH did use TNP, a newspaper with a smaller circulation, to mention about financial burden among the elderly as a cause of suicides.

TNP interviewed Madam Hamidah Mohd, 69, who said that suicide is often discussed by those around her age.

“I had a neighbour who said her life had no meaning because her children refused to visit her. She told me she did not have anyone left and saw little point in living when she did not even have enough money for food,” Mdm Hamidah disclosed”

In this connection, according to the Death Attitudes Survey by Lien Foundation in 2014 – “Top death fear – medical costs –
So it is not surprising that medical costs are what Singaporeans fear most (88%), followed by being a burden to family and friends (87%). These results are similar to the 2009 poll, where being a burden to the family emerged as the top fear, followed by medical costs. In 2013, when asked what are the priorities at the end of life, 87% of Singaporeans wanted to ensure their death would not be a financial burden to family members.”

Healthcare is affordable in Singapore meh!

Leong Sze Hian