Singapore is rapidly evolving its assisted living (AL) infrastructure to cater to its aging population. These facilities provide seniors with a blend of independence and support, making them an ideal option for those who require some level of care but wish to maintain their autonomy. Let’s explore the range of AL facilities that Singaporean elderly can look forward to in their future homes.
Emerging AL Facilities
In Singapore, AL facilities are still developing and currently operate on a small scale. As of May 2022, there were about 606 AL facility beds across various establishments like Red Crowns Senior Living and St Bernadette Lifestyle Village. This number is expected to grow as the demand for such facilities increases with an aging population.
Image source: HDB & MOH
Public AL Facilities
Singapore offers several types of public AL facilities, including Studio Apartments, 2-Room Flexi units, Community Care Apartments, Integrated Care Communities, and Senior Group Homes. These facilities are designed with seniors in mind, offering shorter leases and senior-friendly fittings like grab bars. They are available to seniors aged 55 or 65 and above, with income caps and property ownership restrictions in place to ensure accessibility for those in need.
Integrated Care Communities
Integrated Care Communities like Kampung Admiralty and IDeAL@115 are notable examples. These communities co-locate studio apartments with healthcare, social, and lifestyle facilities, providing a holistic environment for seniors. For instance, the Yew Tee Integrated Development, set to open in 2027, will include a range of amenities from healthcare to social spaces.
Community Care Apartments
The Community Care Apartments are the first of their kind in Singapore, integrating senior-friendly housing with care services. These apartments offer care and support services, home maintenance help, health checks, and 24-hour emergency response, with the first pilot project at Bukit Batok to be completed in 2024.
Senior Group Homes
Senior Group Homes cater to older adults with limited or no family support, aiming to prevent social isolation. These homes house seniors in rental flats and provide care coordination, monitoring, and social services for a nominal monthly fee.
Private AL Facilities
The private sector also plays a role in providing AL services. St Bernadette Lifestyle Village, introduced in 2015, and Red Crowns Senior Living offer senior co-living arrangements with a range of services including meals, housekeeping, and social activities. These facilities provide a more homelike environment with medical support available.
AL Units in Nursing Homes
Some nursing homes in Singapore have incorporated AL units to ease the transition for seniors who may require more intensive care in the future. Lentor Residence and Apex Harmony Lodge are examples of nursing homes that offer AL units, catering to seniors with varying care needs.
Home and Community-Based AL Services
In addition to residential facilities, Singapore provides home and community-based AL services. These services include doctor visits, personal care, meals on wheels, and community-based activities like fitness classes and nursing care. While the availability of these services is limited, they are an integral part of the AL landscape in Singapore.
Wrapping Up
As Singapore continues to adapt to the needs of its aging population, the expansion and diversification of AL facilities are crucial. These facilities not only offer seniors the care and support they need but also respect their desire for independence and community living. For those considering assisted living options in Singapore, staying informed about these developments is key. At A1 Caregivers, we are dedicated to helping the elderly when it comes to home-based care and rehab. Reach out to us to learn more about how we can assist you!
