Understanding Singapore's Aged Care Services Landscape

Singapore is ageing rapidly. By 2030, one in four Singaporeans will be aged 65 and above, placing unprecedented demand on the nation's care infrastructure. For families navigating this transition, understanding the full spectrum of aged care services available is the critical first step toward making informed, compassionate decisions for their loved ones.

The Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC) have built a layered system of Intermediate and Long-Term Care (ILTC) services designed to support seniors at every stage of need. This guide walks you through the landscape so you can find the right level of care at the right time.

Home-Based Care Services

For many families, keeping their loved one at home is the preferred option. Singapore offers several programmes that make this feasible even when care needs increase.

Home Medical and Nursing Services

Home medical services bring doctors and nurses directly to seniors who have difficulty travelling to clinics. These visits can include chronic disease management, wound care, catheter management, and medication reviews. Providers such as NTUC Health, St Andrew's Community Hospital, and various Voluntary Welfare Organisations (VWOs) operate under AIC's coordination.

Home nursing services complement medical visits with regular check-ins for vital signs monitoring, injections, and rehabilitation exercises. Under the Subsidised Home Nursing scheme, eligible Singaporeans can receive substantial subsidies that reduce out-of-pocket costs significantly.

Home Personal Care and Therapy

Beyond medical needs, many seniors require assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation. Home personal care services provide trained caregivers who visit on a scheduled basis to assist with these tasks.

Home therapy services, including physiotherapy and occupational therapy, help seniors maintain mobility and functional independence after hospitalisation or as chronic conditions progress. These services are particularly valuable for post-stroke recovery and fall prevention.