MCYS is committing an additional $18 million over the next 5 years for the establishment and operation of 6 new Day Care Centres and 22 new Seniors Activity Centres in Singapore. These facilities are part of the network of community-based services providing support to caregivers and to help seniors age-in-place. MCYS is currently consulting with community leaders and service providers to finalise the location of these facilities.

2     As one of the fastest ageing populations in the world, the demand for community-based social and care services is likely to grow in Singapore. One in five residents in Singapore is expected to be 65 years and older in 2030, up from one in 12 today. In line with our changing demography, the number of seniors (aged 65 and above) requiring assistance in at least one of six Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) is estimated to double to 65,000 in 2020. 

Day Care Centres 

3     Day Care Centres (DCCs) support families in caring for seniors who are frail. Today, there are 22 DCCs under the purview of MCYS with 6 more centres lanned islandwide. We have received encouraging feedback from families that their elderly benefit from the social interactions at DCCs. Family caregivers also appreciate daycare services as it enables them to return to work or obtain respite care services as and when necessary. 

4     The $5mil budget for new DCCs is in addition to two DCC initiatives announced in March 2008, encompassing a $1mil maintenance exercise enhancement programme and a $0.5mil means-tested transport subsidy scheme for DCCs. 

Seniors Activity Centres 

5     For lower-income and vulnerable seniors living in rental blocks, Seniors Activity Centres (SACs) serve as a first touch-point where seniors can receive social support, participate in activities and meet other seniors. MCYS is putting in $13mil to upgrade selected SACs and build 22 new ones, bringing the total number of SACs to 41 by 2013. The SACs, which are run mainly by Voluntary Welfare Organizations, work with local community partners, such as the grassroots organizations, the Community Development Councils and other eldercare service providers.

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