A Guide for Families in Singapore
Caring for an ageing loved one is both a profound responsibility and an emotional journey. For families in Singapore, navigating the complexities of geriatric care, whether it’s home-based services, day care, or residential care can feel overwhelming. Understanding the costs and the range of available services is essential to ensuring seniors receive the support they need while balancing financial considerations. With an ageing population, the importance of accessible, high-quality elderly care has never been greater.
At The Straits Geriatrics Centre, we are committed to not only providing exceptional care but also guiding families through the decision-making process. Our comprehensive range of services, from preventive care and rehabilitation to nursing and day care, is designed to meet the unique needs of every senior. This guide will break down the costs of different geriatric care options, empowering families with the knowledge to make informed, confident choices that prioritise the dignity and well-being of their loved ones.
The True Essence of Geriatric Care
Geriatric care is more than just providing medical services, it’s about addressing the physical, emotional, and social needs of older adults with compassion and respect. In Singapore, where the population is ageing rapidly, the importance of preventive care and support from a trusted geriatrician in Singapore has never been greater. Preventive measures such as regular health check-ups, lifestyle modifications, and early detection of health issues can help seniors maintain their independence and reduce the risk of serious conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and falls.
Beyond physical health, effective geriatric care focuses on enhancing quality of life. It prioritises personalised care plans that promote social engagement, mental well-being, and functional independence. Key elements include:
Comprehensive Assessments: Evaluating falls risk, memory, and frailty.
Targeted Medical Support: Addressing chronic conditions and coordinating care.
Social and Emotional Well-being: Encouraging social interaction and providing memory care programs.
By combining compassionate care with a proactive approach, elderly care ensures that seniors can thrive, feel valued, and enjoy a meaningful life.
Factors Affecting Geriatric Care Costs
The cost of geriatric care in Singapore is influenced by several key factors, each playing a role in determining the financial implications for families. Understanding these factors can help families plan effectively and access the most suitable care for their loved ones.
Type of Care
The type of care required significantly impacts the overall cost. Options range from home care, where seniors receive medical or nursing services in the comfort of their homes, to day care services, which provide structured programs for physical and social engagement, and residential care, such as nursing homes or hospices, which offer round-the-clock support. Home care services are typically less expensive initially, but residential care often includes additional medical monitoring and 24/7 assistance, making it more costly. Families should assess the level of care needed based on their loved one’s health, mobility, and personal preferences.
Complexity of Services
Seniors with advanced medical or support needs, such as those requiring dementia care or hospice services, often incur higher costs due to the specialised nature of these services. For instance, dementia day care involves customised cognitive activities and close supervision, while hospice care includes pain management and emotional support for those in advanced stages of illness. The more complex the care required, the more resources, expertise, and equipment are necessary, which contributes to the higher costs.
Eligibility for Subsidies
In Singapore, government subsidies play a vital role in reducing the financial burden of elderly care. These subsidies are calculated through household means testing, which considers the family’s per capita income (PCI). Families with lower PCI may qualify for significant cost reductions, making essential services like home care, therapy, and day care more accessible. To apply, families can approach medical social workers at hospitals or use platforms like SupportGoWhere to determine their eligibility and explore available options.
By understanding these factors, families can better navigate the costs of geriatric care and make informed decisions that prioritise both their loved one’s needs and financial stability.
Home-Based Care Services: Comfort and Convenience
Home-based care services allow seniors to remain in a familiar environment while receiving professional support. These services are suitable for seniors who require medical care, nursing assistance, or rehabilitation at home.
Based on AIC Singapore, here are the Generalised Starting Prices:
Home Medical Services: starts from $176 per visit
Home Nursing: starts from $62 per visit
Home Therapy (Physiotherapy/Occupational Therapy): starts from $125 per session
Home-Based Services at The Straits Geriatrics Centre
At The Straits Geriatrics Centre, we provide a range of home-based services tailored to meet the unique needs of seniors. These services ensure that older adults receive professional care in the comfort of their own homes, promoting independence and enhancing quality of life.
Home Nursing
Our experienced nurses assist with essential medical tasks such as wound care, tube feeding, and medication management. We also provide continence care, helping seniors manage bladder or bowel control issues with discretion and compassion, ensuring their comfort and dignity.
Rehabilitation
We offer tailored physiotherapy and occupational therapy programs to support recovery and improve mobility. Whether recovering from a stroke, surgery, or injury, our therapists work closely with seniors to help them regain strength, balance, and independence.
Caregiver Training
Caregiving can be challenging, and we’re here to help families feel confident in their roles. Through personalised training, we provide practical skills and techniques for managing daily tasks, addressing medical needs, and offering emotional support to loved ones.
These services are part of our holistic approach to elderly care, ensuring that seniors can continue living safely and comfortably at home while receiving the support they need. Families also benefit from knowing their loved ones are in capable, compassionate hands.
Day Care Services: Social Engagement and Care
Day care centres provide a structured and supportive environment for seniors, combining physical activities, social interactions, and emotional support.
Based on AIC Singapore, here are the Generalised Starting Prices:
Standard Day Care: starts from $945–$1,430/month
Dementia Day Care: starts from $1,260–$1,575/month
Day Care Services at The Straits Geriatrics Centre
At The Straits Geriatrics Centre, we partner with a compassionate daycare provider to ensure seniors have access to a safe, welcoming space filled with engaging activities, social connections, and professional care. This partnership offers more than just a service—it’s designed to help seniors thrive while giving families peace of mind and time to recharge.
What Our Day Care Partner Offers
Our trusted daycare partner provides tailored programs to meet each senior’s unique needs, including:
Personalised Activities
Cognitive, physical, and social activities like memory exercises, art therapy, and group discussions.
Nutritious Meals
Balanced meals and snacks catering to dietary preferences.
Health Monitoring
Professional staff oversee medications and address any changes in well-being.
Family Updates
Regular feedback keeps families informed and connected.
Day care supports seniors by fostering physical, mental, and emotional well-being in a structured environment, while offering caregivers valuable respite. With safe transportation options and dedicated staff, families can trust that their loved ones are cared for with compassion and professionalism.
Residential Care: Comprehensive Support for Advanced Needs
When seniors require constant care, residential facilities like nursing homes and hospices provide 24/7 medical and personal support.
Based on AIC Singapore, here are the Generalised Starting Prices:
Nursing Homes: starts from $2,200–$4,200/month
Hospice Home Care: starts from $100–$150 per visit
Relevant Services at The Straits Geriatrics Centre
While we do not operate a residential facility, we offer critical support such as:
Hospice and Palliative Care Coordination: Helping families navigate end-of-life care with dignity.
Specialist Referrals: Connecting families with trusted residential care providers.
Preventive Care: Reducing Long-Term Costs
Investing in preventive care can reduce future expenses while enhancing a senior’s quality of life. Preventive care focuses on early detection and management of health issues to minimise complications.
Relevant Services at The Straits Geriatrics Centre
Comprehensive Geriatric Assessments
Evaluate falls risk, memory, mood, bone health, and frailty to guide interventions.
Chronic Disease Management
Support for conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
Family Education Programs
Training caregivers to adopt preventive strategies at home.
Why Preventive Care Matters?
By addressing potential health risks early, seniors can avoid hospitalisations and maintain independence.
How to Apply for Subsidies
Navigating healthcare costs can be challenging, but subsidies provide vital support, making essential services more accessible and affordable. At The Straits Geriatrics Centre, we simplify the subsidy application process, offering compassionate guidance tailored to your needs. Our goal is to help you focus on care and well-being without the stress of financial uncertainty.
What Are Subsidy Assessments?
Subsidy assessments determine eligibility for financial assistance by evaluating factors such as household income, size, and financial needs. They are designed to ensure that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, has access to the care they need.
How We Make It Simple
At The Straits Geriatrics Centre, we guide you through the entire process:
Document Preparation
We help you gather necessary documents, including income statements, identification, and proof of residency.
Application Submission
Our team assists in completing and submitting the required forms to ensure accuracy and efficiency.
Verification and Results
Once your application is reviewed, we help you understand your eligibility and the subsidies you qualify for.
Access Subsidised Services
With approved subsidies, you can focus on receiving quality care at reduced costs.
The Straits Geriatrics Centre is here to guide you through the subsidy assessment process, making quality care more accessible for you and your loved ones. With our support, navigating financial aid becomes simpler, ensuring you can focus on what matters most—your family’s health and well-being.
Why Choose The Straits Geriatrics Centre?
At The Straits Geriatrics Centre, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care that prioritises the well-being of seniors and supports their families. Here’s why families trust us:
Holistic ApproachWe address every senior’s medical, emotional, and social needs through personalised care. From managing chronic conditions to promoting cognitive health and social engagement, we focus on improving overall quality of life while fostering independence.
Experienced Geriatricians in Singapore
Our team of skilled geriatricians specialises in managing complex age-related conditions such as dementia, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular diseases. With extensive experience and a commitment to evidence-based care, our specialists work collaboratively with families and other healthcare providers to ensure seamless, effective treatment.
Family-Centred Care
Caregiving is a journey shared by the whole family, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Through customised care plans, regular updates, and caregiver education, we empower families to take an active role in their loved one’s care, ensuring continuity and peace of mind.
At The Straits Geriatrics Centre, we combine compassion with expertise to help seniors age with dignity and comfort. Contact us today to learn how we can support your family.
Plan Ahead with Confidence
Planning for geriatric care can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Ensuring your loved ones receive the care they deserve starts with understanding their needs and exploring the best options available. At The Straits Geriatrics Centre, we’re committed to walking this journey with you, providing guidance, expertise, and compassionate support every step of the way.
Your loved ones deserve a care plan that prioritises their comfort, dignity, and quality of life. Let us help you create a personalised solution that meets your family’s unique needs while making care accessible and affordable.
Contact The Straits Geriatrics Centre today to discuss how we can support your family. Together, we’ll ensure your loved ones age with the respect, care, and support they truly deserve.