Sectors & markets
Singapore deploys robotic assistant to reduce senior falls and support mobility
PHOTO: The Straits Times
Market Info | Health & Lifestyle | Geriatrics & Assistive Technologies
Date: 15 March 2026
Region: ASEAN-O
Country: Singapore
Sector: Health & Lifestyle
Sub-sector: Geriatrics & Assistive Technologies
Section: Market Trends
Theme: Active aging and fall prevention
Singapore has introduced a new assistive robot, the Data-driven Robotic Balance Assistant (DRBA), in several senior community centers to help prevent falls and enhance mobility. This initiative reflects a multi-sector partnership between NTU Singapore, Lions Befrienders, Smart Urban Co-Innovation Lab, and Lumens, translating cutting-edge research into practical, real-world applications.
The DRBA guides seniors through basic movements, detects imminent balance loss, and provides immediate physical support to reduce the risk of falls. At the same time, it encourages independence and confidence. Early trials in Tampines centers showed that seniors participated more actively in physical exercises, improving both engagement and self-assurance.
This innovation aligns with Singapore’s “ageing in place” strategy, designed to enable older adults to live independently longer while minimizing fall-related hospitalizations. The program demonstrates how robotics, community health initiatives, and assistive technology can converge to enhance seniors’ quality of life.
From an economic perspective, the deployment of DRBA is expected to support growth in home healthcare services, assistive device markets, and specialized installation services. It highlights Singapore’s position as a regional hub for innovation in aging solutions, combining technology, healthcare, and community engagement for positive societal impact.
