Dementia Care in Singapore: A Family Caregiver's Guide

Dementia affects more than 86,000 people in Singapore, and that number is projected to exceed 150,000 by 2030 as the population ages. Behind every diagnosis is a family grappling with profound changes in their loved one's behaviour, personality, and ability to function independently. If someone you love has been diagnosed with dementia, you are not alone, and there is substantial support available.

This guide is written for family caregivers navigating the dementia care journey in Singapore, from understanding the condition to accessing the services and support that can make a meaningful difference.

Understanding Dementia

Dementia is not a single disease but an umbrella term for a group of conditions characterised by progressive decline in cognitive function severe enough to interfere with daily life. The most common form is Alzheimer's disease, accounting for roughly 60 to 70 per cent of cases. Other forms include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.

How Dementia Progresses

While the specific trajectory varies by individual and type, dementia generally progresses through three broad stages.

In the early stage, symptoms are often subtle and may be mistaken for normal ageing. The person may have difficulty finding words, forget recent conversations or events, misplace items, and show reduced initiative or motivation. They can still function relatively independently with some support.

In the middle stage, symptoms become more pronounced and daily assistance is increasingly needed. The person may have difficulty recognising familiar people, experience significant disorientation, exhibit behavioural changes such as agitation, wandering, or repetitive actions, and struggle with personal care tasks.