As Singapore marks 60 years of nationhood, we spotlight innovations that enrich lives across generations. The Cardiovascular Ageing and Longevity (CRANE) programme, launched by National Heart Centre Singapore (NHCS), fits this theme to a tee—ushering in a new era of preventive, age‑tailored heart care that supports up to 60,000 seniors annually.
A Whole‑of‑Heart Approach for Older Adults
Unveiled on 28 May 2025, CRANE is APAC’s first integrated cardiovascular care initiative optimised for older adults. It brings together clinical services, AI-driven assessments, research, and community education—marking a shift from treatment to longevity-driven prevention.
Building on past innovations like the INDEPENDENCY Study, CRANE supports seniors through clinical assessments, nutritional and exercise guidance, and frailty monitoring powered by tools like 3D gait analysis and Medi-Kiosks.
Supporting 60,000 Seniors Every Year
Singapore is ageing fast—with projections showing 1 in 4 residents aged 65+ by 2030. CRANE is designed to serve this growing cohort, embedding AI-enabled screenings and frailty assessments across care settings, ensuring early risk detection and tailored interventions.
Connecting Research With Real Outcomes
CRANE continues the legacy of clinical studies like INDEPENDENCY, which already helped a 70‑year‑old regain muscle and walking strength through exercise and diet programmes. The new programme also delves deeper into research on ageing biomarkers, cardiovascular mechanisms, gender-specific care, and specialised areas like cardio‑oncology.
Empowering Communities, Spreading Knowledge
CRANE’s impact goes beyond hospital walls. It includes training for healthcare providers, community education on heart health, and practical workshops—ensuring everyone knows how to support healthy ageing.
The SG60 Promise: Healthier Hearts, Fuller Lives
SG60 isn’t just about celebrating history—it’s about investing in our future. CRANE exemplifies that mission: ensuring our seniors not only live longer, but live well.
In the next chapter of our national story, we’re not just extending lifespans—we’re enriching them, one healthy heartbeat at a time.
