As Singapore grapples with an ageing population, the unfortunate reality of elderly individuals living alone and being discovered deceased in their homes is becoming all too common.
This narrative recently unfolded tragically on Wednesday, 27th December, when two elderly men, aged 74 and 64, were found dead in their respective flats, according to Shin Min Daily News. Despite the stark coincidence of the incidents occurring on the same day, they were unrelated.
Block 50 Dorset Road: Uncovering the First Tragedy
The day began with a somber revelation at Block 50 Dorset Road. A 74-year-old man, living on the seventh floor, was discovered lifeless in his unit. The unfolding of this unfortunate event was brought to light by a 45-year-old neighbor, Rahman, who noticed an unusual smell emanating from the elderly man’s flat.
The neighbor, Rahman, had returned from abroad on the evening of 26th December. Initially attributing the odor to deceased rats, he informed the cleaner. However, as the stench persisted, suspicions grew. A 78-year-old retiree neighbor, Mr. Ho, revealed that the deceased had been an accountant, living alone for over a decade since the passing of his parents. Despite the lack of immediate family, the man was a familiar figure in the community.
The Singapore Police Force (SPF) confirmed the incident, stating that they received a report and promptly investigated. The preliminary findings indicated no foul play, although a thorough examination is ongoing. The elderly man, an accountant with no immediate family, had succumbed to circumstances unnoticed until the unpleasant discovery.
Block 83 Commonwealth Close: A Second Tragedy Unfold
Neighbors shared that the deceased, a 64-year-old man, lived a solitary life. Despite being in good health and actively participating in late-night corridor sweeping, he had not been seen for several days prior to the discovery. The absence of immediate family or regular check-ins heightened the sense of isolation surrounding his passing.