I agree with Mr Yeow Hwee Ming ("Best way to show respect"; last Friday) that the best form of respect we can show seniors is to offer them the means of being gainfully employed and financially independent.
Employing the elderly is not easy because our vision, hearing and physical abilities deteriorate as we grow older.
Before employing seniors, we might like to consider if the employees, employers and the environment are ready.
Do employees have the necessary knowledge and skills required for the prospective job?
A standard assessment or evaluation protocol needs to be established to determine employees' readiness.
Are employers ready to accept seniors as employees and train them?
Is the work environment ready to accept and tolerate older workers who may work slowly or lack social skills?
Our Workforce Development Agency has played an active role in supporting Singaporean workers and ensuring that they remain competitive so as to meet the demands of Singapore's dynamic economy.
Voluntary welfare organisations and the Employability and Employment Centre have also advocated for an inclusive workforce.
However, we must bear in mind that there is no "one size fits all" approach to the employment of workers, as Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has stressed ("Work beyond 65? Yes, go for it"; May 2).
It takes great effort for employers and older employees to collaborate by respecting each other and sharing their common workplace beliefs.
With time, perseverance and proper planning, it is hoped that inclusive employment for seniors will be beneficial to both the country and the people.
Arnold Chua Chee Keong
*Article first appeared on ST Forum (23 Dec)