Nursing Homes in Singapore

Nursing homes here are expanding, with at least eight new facilities to be added in the next five years to meet the needs of a rapidly ageing population.

As our population continues to age, there is a growing demand for long-term care services for the elderly, increasing the demand for more nursing homes. Nursing homes typically cater to seniors who require care services such as help with activities of daily living, nursing care and night respite for dementia patients.

The basic cost varies between $2,200 and $4,200 per month to stay in a nursing home (before MOH subsidy), depending on the level of care required

Are you in search of a nursing home in Singapore but unsure where to start? This article is here to assist you! In addition to providing a comprehensive list of nursing homes in Singapore, we will guide you through the crucial information you need to know when seeking an elderly nursing home for your loved ones.

What can you expect at a nursing home?

24/7 nursing care: For individuals who require assistance with activities of daily living, medical and nutritional checks, nursing homes have trained professionals equipped with the expertise and experience to deliver the best possible care.

Interactive spaces: Social interaction is essential for a senior’s mental and emotional well-being. The connection and bonds forged can help one feel more connected and supported. It is commonplace to find community gardens and quiet rooms etc in nursing homes as avenues for seniors to interact.

Activities and interest groups: Seniors would have the opportunity to form and drive their own interest groups, such as musical performances, games, and cooking. This helps one stay connected with the community and also keeps the mind active.

Eligibility

To be eligible, your loved one must meet the following criteria:

• Suffering from physical or mental disabilities caused by illness
• Unable to receive care from family members or a caregiver at home
• Have explored other options such as home nursing services or day care but still face challenges in mobility, relying on a wheelchair or being confined to bed
• Need assistance with daily activities, including going to the toilet

If your loved one fulfils the eligibility criteria above, you have 2 options – Voluntary Welfare Organisations (VWO) Nursing Homes and Private Nursing Homes

There are currently 88 nursing home locations in Singapore. 40 are private homes, while 48 are run by Voluntary Welfare Organisations (VWO).

Voluntary Welfare Organisations (VWO) Nursing Home

• In order to apply, it would be best if you could get a referral from a medical social worker at a polyclinic or hospital. They will then submit your application to the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC)
• Once AIC receives your application, they will let you know which nursing homes are available for you to choose from
• To make it more convenient for you to visit, we suggest finding a nursing home that is closer to where you live

Private Nursing Home

• You also have the option to directly apply to the private nursing home of your choice
• Keep in mind that these homes may have higher rates. However, there are subsidies available in certain private nursing homes

Subsidy

Subsidies are available in most nursing homes. These include government or portable subsidies. To be eligible for subsidies, one must :

• Be Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident.
• Be receiving care from an MOH-funded service provider
• Fulfil the admission criteria of the nursing home

To apply for MOH subsidies, you must be eligible for means testing (as in Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) and Senior’s Mobility & Enabling Fund (SMF)). This determines the amount of subsidy you will receive.

Means testing is based on:

• Total number of family members living in the same household
• Gross income of the person who needs care, his/ her spouse and all family members living in the same household

If your household doesn’t have an income, the annual value of the place you are staying in will be taken into consideration.

This is the subsidy rate provided by Ministry of Health:

Source: Ministry of Health

Options

We have compiled a list of all nursing homes presented in alphabetical order for your reference.

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We genuinely hope that this article has provided you with valuable information! If any of your cherished family members or friends are currently residing in a nursing home, we would greatly appreciate hearing your feedback. By sharing your experience, you can potentially help others in similar situations.