SMU Dean of Students and Professor of Sociology (Practice) Paulin Straughan pointed out that the numbers for Community Care Endowment Fund (ComCare) schemes reflect only those who require financial help as compared with other schemes targeted at specific needs. She explained that the decline in demand for ComCare is because those who need help may now be supported by other schemes targeted at specific needs instead. She added, "The decrease in those on short-to medium-term assistance is actually good news, as most of those applicants, who are in their 40s and 50s, are usually still able to find employment. It shows they were able to re-enter the job market and support themselves." However, Prof Straughan opined that a segment of society, such as elderly singles who live alone, will continue to need help.