Suburban malls emerge as ‘second places’ for Singapore’s ageing population
Northpoint City is Frasers Property Singapore’s largest mall in the northern region, and is directly connected to the Yishun MRT Station, as well as offers a vibrant mix of retail and community experiences (Photo: Frasers Property)
A study by Frasers Property and the Singapore Management University Centre for Research on Successful Ageing (ROSA) shows that suburban malls are becoming an essential part of how Singapore’s seniors live, move and stay socially connected.
The findings point to a shift in how such spaces function — less as retail destinations and more as everyday community anchors embedded in seniors’ routines.
More than six in 10 older adults visit suburban malls at least once a week, with many making multiple trips. These visits are driven less by discretionary spending than by habit, familiarity and social interaction.
Dining is the primary draw, cited by 77% of respondents, while over half visit for leisure activities such as window shopping.
Over half of the seniors visit suburban malls for leisure activities such as window shopping (Photo: Frasers Property)
Spending remains modest and routine-based. About 57% spend up to $100 a week, and close to 92% spend no more than $200 — reinforcing the idea that visits are anchored in daily needs and social rhythms rather than consumption.
Accessibility and comfort are key decision drivers. Easy access via public transport (69%), proximity to home (41%) and a practical tenant mix (40%) rank among the top considerations.
Taken together, the data suggest that older adults are seeking reliable, familiar and easily accessible environments that form a consistent part of their daily lives.
The findings come as Singapore moves towards a super-aged society, with one in four residents projected to be aged 65 and above by 2030.
“As Singapore moves towards becoming a super-aged society, the question is how our everyday environments adapt to these demographic changes,” says Professor Paulin Straughan, director of SMU ROSA.
The research highlights the growing role of familiar neighbourhood spaces — including suburban malls — but also underscores the need for more intentional design and programming to better support ageing populations, she adds.
Beyond highlighting current behaviours, the study points to opportunities to enhance accessibility, comfort and activity programming as seniors’ needs continue to evolve.
In response, Frasers Property will launch FRx50+, an ongoing programme in Singapore targeted at seniors aged 50 and above. Running from May 1 to Dec 31, the initiative offers discounts across dining, beauty, wellness and retail at participating malls.
“Guided by our vision of creating meaningful ‘second places’, initiatives such as FRx50+ reflect our ongoing efforts to elevate the mall experience for an evolving population,” says Adrian Tan, managing director of retail at Frasers Property Singapore.
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