New Initiatives for Support and Outreach to Senior Caregivers with Dependents

24 Miss Rachel Ong asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health what new initiatives or enhancements to existing Government programmes are being considered to expand support and outreach to single caregivers, particularly senior citizens who are living alone while caring for their dependents.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: The Government reviews our support measures periodically to help ease the burden on our caregivers. For example, we will be implementing higher subsidies for long-term care and adult disability services, including for caregiving respite services, next year. To better support those looking after persons with moderate disabilities at home, we will also be raising the quantum for the Home Caregiving Grant.

In addition, the Silver Generation Office will continue to reach out to seniors, including caregivers who live alone and connect them to community resources, such as Active Ageing Centres, for befriending activities or caregiver support as necessary.