Grandmothers Go for Gold: Singapore's Active Approach to Aging

In Singapore, the Ah Ma Flippa Ball team, comprised of grandmothers primarily in their 60s to 80s, highlights the country's initiative to enhance senior engagement and health. Through modified water polo, the team exemplifies the societal shift towards acknowledging older populations' vitality and potential.

In Singapore, the Ah Ma Flippa Ball team, which translates to “grandmother” in various Chinese dialects, stands as a testament to the city-state’s commitment to promoting healthy and active lifestyles among its rapidly growing elderly population. Comprised primarily of women in their 60s, 70s, and 80s, these grandmothers are not merely participants in a modified water polo game; they embody a changing narrative around aging in one of the world’s most affluent nations.

On a recent Tuesday, the enthusiasm of the team was palpable as they tussled fiercely for the ball, transforming a casual play into something resembling a rough-and-tumble rugby match. When one of the players, 71-year-old Lee Fong Nam, found herself grappling for control of the ball, she called out for the coach’s intervention. His lighthearted response, “You all are playing rugby!” distilled the spirited atmosphere of the game.

The Ah Ma Flippa Ball team was established in 2016 after Ting Kum Luen, a coach of children’s flippa ball, was approached by sports officials who wished to see a similar program for older adults. Initially skeptical, the team has become emblematic of a broader initiative by Singapore to reframe the role of seniors in society. Life expectancy in Singapore has reached a remarkable 84 years, with nearly one-fifth of the population now over the age of 65. This demographic shift has prompted significant changes in government policy, including increasing the retirement and re-employment ages, as well as expanding benefits and health encouragement initiatives.

To bolster participation among older residents, Singapore has launched various programs, including door-to-door outreach from “Silver Generation Ambassadors.” These ambassadors encourage seniors to engage in physical activities, board games, and even take up learning new languages or robotics. The government also promotes community engagement through e-sports teams, cheerleading squads, and, notably, flippa ball outings.

This innovative approach not only helps in combating age-related health issues but also fosters a sense of belonging and community among seniors. The grit and determination displayed by the Ah Ma Flippa Ball team in the pool highlight Singapore's ongoing efforts to help its older citizens age not just with grace but with an invigorating sense of fun and competition.