Home Caregiver Singapore: Your Guide to Reliable and Compassionate Support

Singapore’s rapidly aging population has created a growing need for home-based care solutions. According to the Ministry of Health, by 2030, one in four Singaporeans will be aged 65 and above. With age comes increased risk of chronic illnesses, mobility limitations, and the need for day-to-day support. For many families, engaging a home caregiver in Singapore has become a practical and compassionate choice.

Home Caregiver Singapore provide essential assistance that allows seniors, patients recovering from illness, or individuals with disabilities to continue living safely and comfortably at home. Whether part-time or live-in, trained caregivers play a vital role in improving quality of life—for both the person receiving care and their loved ones.

What is a Home Caregiver?

A home caregiver is a trained individual who provides assistance with daily living activities and, in some cases, basic medical support. Their goal is to ensure the physical, emotional, and social well-being of the individual under their care—all in the comfort of a familiar home environment.

Home caregivers in Singapore may support:

• Elderly individuals with age-related conditions

• Persons with dementia, Parkinson’s, or stroke

• Patients recovering post-hospital discharge

• Individuals with physical disabilities or chronic illness

What Services Do Home Caregivers Provide?

The exact scope of a caregiver’s duties will depend on the needs of the person receiving care. In general, caregivers can assist with:

1. Personal Care

• Bathing and grooming

• Toileting and incontinence care

• Dressing and hygiene

2. Mobility and Transfer Assistance

• Helping the person move safely from bed to chair

• Fall prevention support

• Assistance with walking aids or wheelchairs

3. Meal Preparation and Feeding

• Cooking nutritious meals according to dietary needs

• Assisting with eating and hydration

4. Medication Reminders

While not typically allowed to administer medication, trained caregivers can assist with reminders and ensure medications are taken on time.

5. Companionship and Emotional Support

• Engaging in conversation

• Accompanying the individual for walks or appointments

• Providing mental stimulation through games, music, or reading

6. Housekeeping Support

• Light housekeeping

• Laundry

• Running errands (if part of the job scope)

Types of Home Caregivers in Singapore

There are several types of caregiver services available, depending on your family’s needs and budget:

1. Part-Time Caregivers

Ideal for families who need help for a few hours per day or week. This flexible option is useful for respite care or supporting a domestic helper.

Cost Range: $20 – $30 per hour

2. Live-In Caregivers

Live-in caregivers reside with the family and provide round-the-clock support. Many are foreign domestic workers trained in eldercare.

Cost Range: $700 – $1,200 per month (excluding levy, food, and lodging)

3. Trained Local Caregivers

Certified Singaporean or PR caregivers with WSQ eldercare qualifications. Usually engaged through agencies for higher-level support or short-term needs.

Cost Range: $25 – $40 per hour or $3,000 – $4,500 per month

When Should You Consider Hiring a Home Caregiver?

Hiring a home caregiver is a meaningful decision. Here are some situations where engaging a caregiver may be the right choice:

• Your loved one struggles with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, or eating

• There’s a need for supervision to prevent falls or wandering (e.g., dementia)

• The primary family caregiver is experiencing burnout or needs a break

• The patient is returning home after surgery, hospitalization, or rehab

• You want to avoid nursing homes and keep your loved one at home

Choosing the Right Home Caregiver in Singapore

Finding the right caregiver involves more than comparing costs. Here are important factors to consider:

1. Training and Qualifications

Check for WSQ certification or relevant eldercare training. Some caregivers may have specialized skills in dementia or palliative care.

2. Experience and References

Choose a caregiver with a proven track record. Reliable agencies will provide references and background checks.

3. Language and Communication

Ensure the caregiver speaks a language your loved one understands. Effective communication is key to comfort and cooperation.

4. Cultural Sensitivity

Especially when hiring foreign domestic helpers, it’s important to consider cultural compatibility with your family.

5. Personality and Patience

A caregiver should be empathetic, observant, and calm under pressure. Conduct a trial or interview to assess fit.

Government Support and Subsidies for Caregivers

Singapore offers financial assistance to families caring for elderly or disabled loved ones at home. These include:

1. Home Caregiving Grant (HCG)

• $250 per month

• For care recipients with permanent moderate disability

• Requires a means-test and ADL assessment

2. Foreign Domestic Worker (FDW) Levy Concession

• Reduced levy of $60/month for households with eligible care recipients

3. ElderFund and Caregivers Training Grant

• ElderFund provides financial aid for lower-income families

• Caregivers Training Grant offers up to $200 per year for caregiver courses

Visit the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC) to learn more about eligibility and application procedures.

Why Choose iKare Home for Home Caregiver Services?

At iKare Home, we understand that trusting someone with the care of a loved one is a deeply personal decision. That’s why we offer home caregiver services that are professional, compassionate, and customized to meet your needs.

What Sets Us Apart:

• Certified and trained caregivers with eldercare expertise

• Flexible packages: part-time, full-time, or live-in

• Personalized care plans tailored to individual needs

• Ongoing support and supervision from our care coordinators

• Multilingual caregivers to suit different household preferences

Whether you need short-term help post-surgery, full-time elderly care, or occasional respite, iKare Home is here to help you provide the best for your loved ones—right in the comfort of home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much does a home caregiver cost in Singapore?

Costs vary based on service type. Part-time local caregivers typically charge $20–$40/hour. Live-in caregivers, usually foreign domestic workers with training, range from $700–$1,200/month, excluding levy and upkeep.

What is the difference between a caregiver and a nurse?

Caregivers assist with daily living activities and companionship. Nurses are medically trained to handle clinical tasks like wound care, injections, and medication administration. Some caregivers may be trained in basic medical tasks.

Can I hire a part-time caregiver for just a few hours a week?

Yes. Part-time or ad-hoc caregivers are available for short durations or specific time blocks. This is ideal for families needing respite or support during busy hours.

Are caregivers trained to manage dementia?

Many home caregivers undergo specialized training in dementia care. Always ask the agency or individual about their experience with specific conditions.

Is financial assistance available for hiring a caregiver?

Yes. Eligible families can apply for the Home Caregiving Grant, FDW levy concession, and other subsidies through the AIC. Training grants are also available for family caregivers.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a home caregiver in Singapore is more than a convenience—it’s a meaningful way to support your loved one’s dignity, independence, and well-being. With proper care, many seniors and individuals with health challenges can thrive in the comfort of their own homes.

Whether you’re exploring part-time care, live-in support, or post-discharge assistance, iKare Home is here to guide you with experience, empathy, and professionalism.

Let us help you navigate the care journey with confidence—because every family deserves quality care, right where it matters most.