Singapore’s ageing population is creating a pressing need for informal caregivers, with more than 210,000 individuals stepping up to care for their elderly loved ones.
Many of these caregivers find themselves managing multiple roles, whether as parents, employees, or family members while trying to look after their own well-being.
This constant juggling act can result in caregiver burnout, where the emotional, physical, and mental tensions of long-term caregiving become overwhelming. As the elderly population continues to rise, the demands on these dedicated individuals will only increase, intensifying the challenges they already face.
The hidden pressures of caregiving
Caregivers often face challenges that go unnoticed. Many refrain from sharing their stress and exhaustion, feeling it is their duty to care for their family members. However, the emotional toll cannot be ignored.
A survey by the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC) shows that nearly half of caregivers experience burnout, especially when caring for those with severe or chronic illnesses.
One caregiver shared her experience of caring for her 82-year-old mother, who often remains uncommunicative and physically stiff. The lack of interaction makes it difficult to gauge her mother-in-law’s needs, adding to the emotional and physical pressure. This is a reality that many caregivers face, yet few receive the recognition or support they need.
In addition to emotional strain, the financial cost of caregiving can be immense. Informal caregiving is estimated to contribute about SGD 1.28 billion annually to Singapore’s healthcare economy, reflecting the extensive effort families put into caring for loved ones. However, these personal sacrifices often come at the caregiver’s own expense, both financially and health-wise.
The current support systems
Fortunately, Singapore offers a variety of programmes to help ease the burden on caregivers. The government’s Caregivers Training Grant (CTG), for example, provides financial assistance for caregivers to attend courses aimed at improving care and managing stress. These programmes are designed to equip caregivers with the skills needed to handle the many challenges they face.
Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) also provide crucial support. Dementia Singapore’s CARA membership, for instance, connects caregivers to resources, support groups, and communities that understand their struggles. Respite care services, offered through community centres, allow caregivers to take much-needed breaks while ensuring that their loved ones are being looked after by professionals.
The rise in dementia cases in Singapore is particularly concerning. By 2030, it is expected that over 100,000 people in Singapore will suffer from dementia, a significant increase from 82,000 in 2018. Caring for dementia patients presents additional challenges, such as managing behavioural changes, and it can be emotionally draining for caregivers.
Technology: Is it a helping hand?
Beyond traditional support, technology is also playing an increasing role in easing the strain on caregivers. Programmes such as SPARK, which uses technology to create personalised care plans addressing mental, physical, and emotional well-being, are emerging as valuable tools. By leveraging OMNIFIT technology to track health metrics, caregivers can make more informed decisions and offer better care.
While these innovations are helpful, more collaboration between the government, NGOs, and organisations is needed to develop comprehensive support systems that meet the varied needs of caregivers.
Shared responsibility for the future
As Singapore continues to age, the demand for caregiving will only increase. The strain on caregivers, many of whom are ageing themselves, will grow in tandem.
A study by the former Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) highlighted that nearly 45 percent of potential caregivers felt they needed help to properly care for an elderly relative aged 75 and above.
This points to the fact that caregiving is not merely a family issue but a broader societal one that demands collective action. Stress levels among caregivers often rise when their daily routines, finances, and health are impacted by caregiving duties. By offering more accessible training, financial relief, and community support, we can begin to alleviate some of these pressures.
Building a brighter future
Caregivers are truly unsung heroes. They dedicate their time, energy, and love to ensuring that their elderly family members are cared for, often at significant personal sacrifice. It is vital that we, as a society, collaborate and do more to support them.
Through financial aid, community involvement, and the incorporation of new technologies, training, and services, we can work together to lighten the load for caregivers. In doing so, we will not only improve the lives of our elderly population but also help caregivers preserve their health and well-being.
The path forward demands a collective effort. Government agencies, NGOs, private companies, and communities must collaborate to build a stronger, more robust support system for caregivers. By understanding and addressing their challenges, we can create a more compassionate society for all.
Article contributed by Sangchul Lee, Chief Operating Officer at iKare
Photos by Within Studios by The Majurity Trust on Unsplash
