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Financial Assistance for Nursing Homes in Singapore: A Complete Guide for Families

Uploaded On: 05 Nov 2025

Caregiver feeding elderly patient at a nursing home

Introduction

Nursing homes play a vital role in caring for seniors who need round-the-clock support, daily living assistance, and regular medical supervision. For many families, the choice to place a loved one in a nursing home is never simple. It often comes with emotional considerations as well as practical ones, with cost being one of the most significant concerns.

The expenses associated with long-term senior care can feel heavy, especially when families are also managing work, household responsibilities, and other commitments. Recognising these challenges, Singapore has developed a comprehensive framework of subsidies, insurance schemes, and dedicated support programmes to provide financial assistance for nursing homes. These measures help ensure that care remains accessible and sustainable, regardless of economic background.

This guide offers a comprehensive overview of the financial assistance options for nursing homes in Singapore. It highlights the key schemes, eligibility requirements, and benefits, while also explaining how to begin the application process. With clear information, families can make informed decisions about care planning, knowing that support is available to ease both caregiving responsibilities and financial pressures.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Singapore has a wide range of schemes that work together to make long-term residential care more affordable for families.
  2. Support comes in different forms, including insurance payouts, savings withdrawals, subsidies, and last-resort safety nets.
  3. Eligibility and benefits depend on various factors, including disability assessments, household income, property value, and citizenship status.
  4. Families do not need to navigate the system alone, as nursing homes and care providers can guide them through the application process and provide information on financial assistance options.

Key Financial Assistance Schemes in Singapore

Singapore has developed several national programmes to make nursing home care more affordable. These initiatives combine insurance, subsidies, and dedicated support to ease the financial responsibilities of families. Among the most significant are CareShield Life, ElderShield, and IDAPE, each offering different forms of coverage depending on age and eligibility. Together, these schemes form the foundation of financial assistance for nursing homes, helping families plan more effectively for long-term care.

Infographics about Key Financial Assistance Schemes in Singapore

A. CareShield Life and ElderShield as Long-Term Care Insurance

What is CareShield Life, and how does it work?

Launched in 2020, CareShield Life is Singapore’s national long-term care insurance scheme. It replaced ElderShield for new cohorts and is compulsory for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents born in 1980 or later. CareShield Life provides lifelong monthly cash payouts for individuals who become severely disabled, giving families reassurance that protection will continue over time. For those considering a private nursing home, these payouts can serve as an essential form of financial assistance for nursing homes, helping to reduce out-of-pocket expenses and ease the burden on families.

Why is CareShield Life important for Singapore residents?

Studies show that one in two Singapore residents may face severe disability at some stage in life. This may arise from sudden health events such as a stroke, the progression of chronic illness, or natural age-related decline. CareShield Life helps families prepare for these possibilities by pooling risks across the population, creating a sustainable model of long-term care financing. For families, this forms an integral part of financial assistance for nursing homes, offering support beyond standard elderly care subsidies, easing the worry that care costs will become overwhelming.

Who is eligible for CareShield Life?

Eligibility for CareShield Life depends on a person’s year of birth and residency status:

  • Born in 1980 or later: Automatically enrolled at age 30, starting from 1 October 2020.
  • Born in 1979 or earlier: Participation is optional.
  • Born between 1970 and 1979: Those previously eligible for ElderShield 400 and not severely disabled were auto-enrolled from 1 December 2021. Others in this age group may apply through the CareShield Life e-Service, which includes a 60-day free-look period.
  • Foreigners who became Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents (PRs) on or after 1 October 2020: Required to join, unless they were already assessed as severely disabled.


This structure ensures broad coverage while offering flexibility for older cohorts and new citizens or PRs.

What benefits does CareShield Life provide?

CareShield Life is designed to give families peace of mind by offering strong and flexible protection:

  • Lifetime coverage once premiums are paid up to age 67, or for 10 years after enrolment.
  • Worldwide access to payouts, so that support continues regardless of the policyholder’s location.
  • Government healthcare assistance, which includes premium subsidies of up to 30 percent, participation incentives of up to $4,000, and Additional Premium Support (APS) for families who may need extra help.
  • Flexible payment options, with premiums fully payable through MediSave, and the ability for family members to contribute if needed.

These features ensure that protection is sustainable, practical, and accessible for families planning long-term care.

How much are CareShield Life payouts?

Payouts start when a person is assessed as unable to perform at least three of the six Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), such as dressing, feeding, or bathing. The monthly payments are designed to grow over time, helping families keep pace with rising care costs. For instance, a 42-year-old in 2022 received $624 per month, while projections indicate that a 45-year-old in 2025 will receive $662 per month. These funds can be used flexibly, whether to cover nursing home expenses, support a caregiver, or provide care at home.

How can CareShield Life claims be made?

To make a claim, the individual must undergo an assessment by a Ministry of Health (MOH) accredited assessor. The first assessment is provided at no cost, and any subsequent assessments are reimbursed if severe disability is confirmed. Once eligibility is certified, families can conveniently submit claims online through the AIC eFASS portal, making the process more straightforward.

Can CareShield Life be supplemented to provide additional coverage?

Yes. Families can choose to purchase optional add-ons from private insurers to expand their CareShield Life coverage. These supplements can increase monthly payouts, extend the duration of benefits, or lower the threshold for making a claim.

Some plans allow payouts to begin once the insured requires help with just one or two Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), rather than three, making support more accessible at earlier stages of disability. This flexibility allows families to tailor their coverage to their loved one’s care needs and strengthen their overall long-term care planning.

CareShield Life – How it Helps with Nursing Home Costs

The monthly payouts from CareShield Life can be directed toward nursing home bills, caregiver salaries, or home-based care services. By providing a steady income stream, it helps families manage recurring expenses without depleting their savings. This ongoing financial support reduces the immediate burden of long-term residential care and keeps essential services within reach.

Family supporting elderly loved one in a wheelchair

What was ElderShield, and how did it work?

Before CareShield Life, ElderShield was Singapore’s first national long-term care insurance scheme, introduced in 2002. Although its coverage was limited compared to today’s system, it provided an important foundation for building stronger safety nets that followed. ElderShield also played a role in shaping today’s approach to financial assistance for nursing homes, helping families manage part of the costs of long-term care. For many families, ElderShield was their first form of structured support, helping to offset part of the financial strain of long-term care.

Who was eligible for ElderShield?

Until 2019, Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents were automatically enrolled in ElderShield at age 40, unless they chose to opt out. From 2020 onwards, new enrolments stopped as CareShield Life became the national long-term care insurance scheme. Seniors born on or before 30 September 1932, as well as those who were already living with a severe disability when ElderShield was introduced in 2002, were not eligible. Instead, they could receive support through the Interim Disability Assistance Programme for the Elderly (IDAPE).

What benefits and payouts did ElderShield provide?

ElderShield offered monthly payouts to individuals with severe disability, though the amounts and duration were more limited compared with CareShield Life. Policyholders under ElderShield 300 received $300 per month for up to 60 months, while those under ElderShield 400 received $400 per month for up to 72 months.


Despite these constraints, ElderShield played a crucial role in early disability support schemes, providing families with some relief from the financial burden of long-term care. When combined with other forms of assistance, such as nursing home subsidies, these payouts helped ease part of the care burden and supported families in meeting their loved one’s needs.

How were ElderShield claims made?

  • Claimants had to be assessed as unable to perform at least three of the six Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), such as feeding, bathing, or moving independently.
  • Assessments were conducted by Ministry of Health (MOH) accredited assessors.
  • Assessment fees were reimbursed if severe disability was confirmed.
  • Once eligibility was certified, claims were submitted through the AIC eFASS portal, using a process similar to the one currently used for CareShield Life.

How was ElderShield administered and transitioned?

ElderShield was initially managed by private insurers before it came under direct government administration on 1 November 2021. At that point, policyholders were given the option to either remain with ElderShield or upgrade to CareShield Life. Premiums already paid into ElderShield were factored into CareShield Life, ensuring a smooth transition and preventing families from losing the value of their earlier contributions.

Were ElderShield supplements available?

Yes. Policyholders could enhance their coverage by purchasing optional supplements from private insurers. These add-ons increased payouts or extended the duration of benefits, giving families more comprehensive protection. This flexibility made it easier to plan for long-term care in Singapore, particularly for those seeking additional financial reassurance.

Infographic of caregiver support options beyond financing

B. IDAPE: Interim Disability Assistance for the Elderly

What is IDAPE, and why was it introduced?

Not every senior in Singapore qualified for CareShield Life or ElderShield, especially those from earlier generations who were already elderly or living with a disability before these schemes were introduced. To ensure this group was not left without support, the government launched the Interim Disability Assistance Programme for the Elderly (IDAPE) in 2002.

IDAPE provides targeted financial help for seniors with severe disabilities, offering families much-needed relief when covering care costs. This support can be used for financial assistance to nursing homes, community-based services, or even arrangements such as private care for dementia patients, depending on the family’s situation. By filling this gap, IDAPE ensures that older Singaporeans continue to receive dignified care even if they were not part of later insurance schemes.

How does IDAPE support families?

IDAPE was established to assist seniors who were unable to join ElderShield when it was first introduced. It offers monthly cash payouts to individuals living with severe disabilities for up to 72 months. By focusing on seniors who may otherwise be excluded from national insurance coverage, IDAPE helps families manage costs and contributes to the broader framework of financial assistance for nursing homes, ensuring that support is available during some of the vulnerable stages of life.

What benefits does IDAPE provide?

  • Eligible seniors receive $150 or $250 per month, with the exact amount determined by household income and property value.
  • Payouts are flexible in use and can be applied towards medical bills, nursing home fees, or to help offset the cost of in-home caregiver support.
  • Funds may be directed to the senior, a caregiver, or the nursing home, depending on the family’s preference. This flexibility ensures support is channelled where it is most needed, helping families manage care with greater peace of mind.

Who is eligible for IDAPE?

  • To qualify for IDAPE, seniors must meet the following conditions:
  • Be a Singapore Citizen residing in Singapore.
  • Born on or before 30 September 1932, or between 1932 and 1962, with a pre-existing disability when ElderShield was introduced in 2002.
  • Have a household income per person of $3,600 or less.
  • Not covered under CareShield Life, ElderShield, or their supplements.
  • Require help with at least three out of six Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).

These criteria ensure that IDAPE focuses on seniors who may not have had access to earlier insurance schemes, while directing elderly care subsidies and government healthcare assistance to those with the greatest need.

How can families make IDAPE claims?

  • A disability assessment must be completed by an MOH-accredited clinic or assessor. The fee is $100 for a clinic visit or $250 for a house call, and this is reimbursed if the senior is confirmed to be eligible.
  • Claims are submitted online through the AIC eFASS portal, making the process straightforward for families.
  • Approved payouts are credited every month, easing the cost of daily care and helping families plan with greater confidence.

IDAPE – How it Helps with Nursing Home Costs

For older seniors who were not eligible for CareShield Life or ElderShield, IDAPE provides an essential source of financial support. The monthly payouts can be used to cover nursing home fees, purchase personal care items, or supplement the costs of caregivers. This ensures that seniors from earlier generations continue receiving the assistance they need, even without modern insurance coverage.

C. ElderFund as a Safety Net for Lower-Income Families

What is ElderFund, and why was it introduced?

​​ElderFund was launched on 31 January 2020 as part of Singapore’s commitment to ensuring that no senior is left without financial support for long-term care. It provides discretionary monthly payouts to lower-income Singaporeans aged 30 and above who live with severe disability but are not covered by CareShield Life, ElderShield, or IDAPE.

For families, ElderFund provides an additional layer of protection within Singapore’s system of nursing home funding options. The payouts can be used flexibly, whether to offset nursing home expenses, arrange respite care for a caregiver in need of rest, or support daily living needs at home. In this way, ElderFund helps bridge gaps and provides much-needed financial assistance for nursing homes, ensuring that support reaches those who might have fallen through earlier schemes.

What benefits does ElderFund provide?

  • Provides monthly payouts of up to $250.
  • Support continues as long as the eligibility conditions are met, providing ongoing reassurance to families.
  • Funds can be used flexibly for nursing home fees, daily living expenses, or to ease the cost of caregiver support.

This flexibility allows families to direct help to where it is needed, whether that means covering professional care in a facility or easing the responsibilities of loved ones providing care at home.

Who is eligible for ElderFund?

To qualify for ElderFund, applicants must meet these criteria:

  • Be a Singapore Citizen, aged 30 and above, and living in Singapore.
  • Not covered under CareShield Life, ElderShield, or IDAPE.
  • Have a household income per person of $1,500 or less and a MediSave balance below $10,000.
  • Require help with at least three out of six Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).

These requirements ensure that ElderFund provides targeted government healthcare assistance and elderly care subsidies to families with the highest levels of financial need.

How can families make ElderFund claims?

  • An MOH-accredited disability assessment is required to confirm eligibility.
  • For seniors already living in a nursing home, the facility can help by submitting the Resident’s Assessment Form on their behalf.
  • Applications are made through the AIC eFASS portal, which allows families to complete the process online.
  • Processing typically takes up to four weeks. Once approved, payouts are credited each month, helping families manage costs while continuing care for their loved ones.

ElderFund – How it Helps with Nursing Home Costs

ElderFund supports lower-income Singaporeans with severe disabilities who do not qualify for other schemes. The monthly cash payout of up to $250 can be applied directly to nursing home bills or used for other ongoing care needs. This fund plays a crucial role in bridging financial gaps, ensuring that seniors continue to receive essential care even when other funding sources are insufficient.

Nurse consulting elderly patient and family member

D. MediSave Care and Other Related Schemes

What is MediSave Care and how does it work?

MediSave Care was introduced to give families added flexibility in covering the costs of long-term care. Under this scheme, Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents who are severely disabled can withdraw a set amount of cash each month from their MediSave account. These funds may be used for a variety of purposes, including nursing home fees, daily living expenses, or support for caregivers.

By drawing on existing savings, MediSave Care serves as an added layer of financial assistance for nursing homes and home-based care. It helps families manage immediate costs while ensuring that essential medical savings remain available for future healthcare needs.

Who is eligible for MediSave Care?

To qualify for MediSave Care, individuals must:

  • Be aged 30 or older.
  • Be a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident.
  • Be certified by a Ministry of Health (MOH) accredited assessor as requiring help with at least three out of six Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), such as feeding, dressing, or moving independently.
  • Maintain a minimum of $5,000 in MediSave to ensure funds are available for essential medical expenses.

These requirements ensure that MediSave Care helps families meet long-term care costs, while also keeping a safety buffer for hospitalisation and other critical medical needs.

What benefits does MediSave Care provide?

  • Allows withdrawals of up to $200 per month (or $2,400 annually).
  • If the account holder’s MediSave balance is insufficient, a spouse’s MediSave can be used to supplement withdrawals, with a combined cap of $200 per month.
  • The amount that can be withdrawn depends on the MediSave balance:

    • $20,000 or more: $200/month.
    • $15,000 to $19,999: $150/month.
    • $10,000 to $14,999: $100/month.
    • $5,000 to $9,999: $50/month.
    • Below $5,000: Not eligible.

How can families make MediSave Care claims?

  • A severe disability assessment must be carried out by an MOH-accredited assessor.
  • The fee for the first assessment is reimbursed if the senior is confirmed to be eligible.
  • Claims are submitted through the AIC eFASS portal, which provides a convenient online process.
  • Once approved, monthly payouts are credited directly into the beneficiary’s bank account, helping families manage care expenses more smoothly.

MediSave Care – How it Helps with Nursing Home Costs

MediSave Care allows families to use their existing MediSave savings to meet nursing home and long-term care expenses. Monthly withdrawals can go toward room and board, nursing charges, or caregiver fees. This flexibility gives families a way to draw from accumulated savings, easing the cash flow needed to maintain continuous care.

What is the MediSave 500/700 Scheme?

Alongside MediSave Care, families can also utilise the MediSave 500/700 Scheme, which helps cover outpatient care for chronic conditions under the Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP).

  • $500 per year can be withdrawn for one non-complex chronic condition.
  • $700 per year is available for two or more conditions, or one complex condition with complications.
  • Coverage includes medical consultations, diagnostic tests, and treatments at approved clinics and Specialist Outpatient Clinics (SOCs).
  • From 2024, co-payments at Healthier SG clinics will be waived, improving accessibility for seniors managing chronic conditions.

This scheme is particularly beneficial for older adults who require regular outpatient care in conjunction with long-term support, providing another layer of government healthcare assistance for families.

What is Flexi-MediSave, and who is eligible to use it?

Flexi-MediSave provides an additional $300 per year for seniors aged 60 and above. These funds can be used for outpatient treatment, home care services, or nursing care, and may also be applied toward the medical needs of dependants.

The scheme was created to help seniors manage everyday health expenses in later life, extending support beyond traditional MediSave coverage. For families already balancing the costs of care, Flexi-MediSave offers meaningful relief for day-to-day medical needs and complements other forms of financial assistance for nursing homes.

E. Pioneer and Merdeka Generation Packages for Seniors

What is the Pioneer Generation Package, and who is eligible?

The Pioneer Generation (PG) Package was introduced to recognise and honour Singapore’s earliest generation who played a vital role in building the nation. Eligibility applies to citizens born on or before 31 December 1949 who obtained citizenship by 31 December 1986.

This package offers a comprehensive range of healthcare benefits, including MediSave top-ups, outpatient subsidies, and enhanced insurance coverage. For families caring for older loved ones, these measures help ease the cost of elder care and complement existing financial assistance for nursing homes, allowing seniors to access care without adding unnecessary pressure to household finances.

What benefits does the Pioneer Generation Package provide?

The Pioneer Generation Package offers a range of lifelong healthcare benefits designed to ease medical costs and recognise the contributions of Singapore’s first generation:

  • MediSave top-ups: Between $300 and $1,200 annually for life, depending on birth cohort. Older Pioneers with serious pre-existing conditions also receive an additional $50 to $200 each year from 2021 to 2025.
  • Outpatient subsidies: An extra 50 percent off subsidised services and medications at polyclinics and public Specialist Outpatient Clinics (SOCs). Enhanced subsidies at CHAS GP and dental clinics cover up to $28.50 for common illnesses, $90 for simple chronic visits (capped at $360 per year), and $135 for complex chronic visits (capped at $540 per year).
  • CareShield Life incentives: Up to $4,000 for those who joined by the end of 2023, or $3,000 for those who enrolled by the end of 2024, spread across 10 years.
  • MediShield Life subsidies: Between 40 and 60 percent, depending on age, along with MediSave top-ups to offset premiums.
  • Pioneer Disability Assistance Scheme (PioneerDAS): $100 monthly lifelong cash assistance for Pioneers who require help with at least three Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).
  • Recognition: Beyond financial relief, the package serves as a heartfelt gesture of gratitude, acknowledging the nation-building efforts and sacrifices of the Pioneer Generation.

What is the Merdeka Generation Package, and who qualifies?

The Merdeka Generation (MG) Package was introduced for Singaporeans born between 1950 and 1959 who obtained citizenship by 31 December 1996. This generation came of age during Singapore’s independence and played a key role in shaping the nation in its early years.

The MG Package not only acknowledges their contributions but also provides support for healthcare and retirement needs. By reducing medical costs and easing financial pressures, it complements other schemes that offer financial assistance for nursing homes, enabling families to manage long-term care needs in a practical manner.

What benefits does the Merdeka Generation Package provide?

The Merdeka Generation Package offers a set of healthcare benefits that ease medical costs while recognising the contributions of this generation:

  • Annual MediSave top-ups: Provided from 2019 to 2023 to boost healthcare savings and help cover future medical needs.
  • Healthcare subsidies: Cover outpatient care, health screenings, and vaccinations, making it easier for seniors to manage ongoing health conditions and preventive care.
  • Recognition: Beyond financial relief, the MG Package serves as a national acknowledgement of the vital role this generation played in Singapore’s development.

How do the Pioneer and Merdeka Generation Packages differ?

The primary difference between the two packages lies in the duration of the benefits. The Pioneer Generation Package provides lifelong healthcare support, while the Merdeka Generation Package offers benefits for a more limited period. Despite this distinction, both groups may also receive support from the Majulah Package, which provides additional retirement and healthcare benefits to enhance security for seniors in Singapore.

Pioneer and Merdeka Generation Packages – How They Help with Nursing Home Costs

While the Pioneer and Merdeka Generation Packages do not directly cover nursing home fees, they ease overall healthcare costs through MediSave top-ups and outpatient subsidies, allowing families to retain more savings for residential care.

For the Pioneer Generation, the Pioneer Disability Assistance Scheme (PioneerDAS) provides an additional $100 monthly lifelong cash payout for seniors who require help with at least three Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). These payouts can be used flexibly, including for nursing home expenses or caregiver support, helping families manage day-to-day care costs more sustainably.

When combined with other schemes such as CareShield Life, ElderFund, or MediSave Care, these generational benefits form an important layer of support that helps families meet nursing home expenses with greater ease and stability.

Checklist of documents for nursing home financial application

F. MediFund as the Final Safety Net for Families

What is MediFund, and why was it created?

MediFund is a government endowment fund established to act as the final safety net for Singaporeans who continue to face difficulties paying their medical or care bills, even after subsidies, MediSave, and insurance have been applied. Its purpose is to ensure that no one is denied access to essential healthcare because of financial hardship.

For seniors, this support extends to financial assistance for nursing homes, community hospitals, and approved long-term care facilities. MediFund works alongside two related schemes: MediFund Silver, which caters to older adults, and MediFund Junior, which supports children with medical needs. Together, these programmes provide added protection for vulnerable groups, reassuring families that help is available when it is needed.

What benefits does MediFund provide?

  • Coverage scope: MediFund can be used to settle bills at public healthcare institutions, community hospitals, and approved long-term care facilities.
  • Tailored assistance: The level of aid depends on each person’s financial, health, and social circumstances, ensuring that support is customised to the needs of every family.
  • Committee review: Every MediFund-approved institution has a dedicated committee that reviews applications and determines the level of support. At Orange Valley, the MediFund Committee carefully assesses applications and provides timely assistance to residents who require additional support.

Who is eligible for MediFund?

To qualify for MediFund, applicants must:

  • Be a Singapore Citizen.
  • Be a subsidised patient.
  • Be receiving treatment at a MediFund-approved institution.
  • Face genuine difficulty paying bills even after using subsidies, MediSave, and insurance.


These criteria ensure that MediFund remains a targeted form of government healthcare assistance, reaching individuals and families who have already used other avenues of support but still need help to manage essential care costs.

How can families apply for MediFund?

  • Applications are submitted through Medical Social Workers at MediFund-approved institutions.
  • The assessment process examines the family’s overall situation, including their financial resources, care needs, and available social support.
  • Based on this review, the MediFund Committee determines the level of assistance and may also recommend alternative financing options. This helps families access support that suits their circumstances.

MediFund – How it Helps with Nursing Home Costs

As the final safety net, MediFund assists families who still face difficulties after using all other forms of support. For nursing home residents, it can cover outstanding fees and ensure continuity of care. By assessing each family’s circumstances, MediFund helps prevent care disruptions and ensures that seniors continue receiving support regardless of financial hardship.

Nurse engaging with elderly residents in a nursing home

Applying and Accessing Support for Nursing Home Care

Most forms of financial assistance for nursing homes in Singapore require a disability assessment. This is measured through the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). To qualify for many schemes, a person must need help with at least three of these activities.

In addition to disability assessments, families must also undergo means-testing. This process determines the level of subsidy a household may receive and is based on two main factors:

  • Household income per person
  • Annual value of property

Means-testing helps ensure that support is fairly distributed, with greater assistance directed toward families who need it most. In most cases, applicants must also be Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents to qualify for government subsidies and schemes.

How can families apply for financial assistance schemes?

Each scheme has its own application pathway, although most are centrally managed through the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC):

  • Disability-related schemes: Applications for CareShield Life, MediSave Care, IDAPE, ElderFund, and the Pioneer Generation Disability Assistance Scheme (PGDAS) can be submitted online through the AIC eFASS portal. Families can upload documents, track progress, and receive updates through this platform.
  • Nursing home subsidies: Applications are also submitted through AIC, following household means-testing. AIC officers guide families step by step, helping them understand the documents required and the level of support for which they may be eligible.
  • MediFund: Applications take place through Medical Social Workers at MediFund-approved institutions. Social workers review the family’s financial situation and submit applications on their behalf.

Nursing homes, such as Orange Valley, often provide direct support during this process. Staff can coordinate disability assessments, assist with preparing documents, and ensure applications are submitted correctly. This guidance helps families feel less burdened, allowing them to focus on what matters most: planning and supporting their loved one’s care.

Other Questions You Might Have

1. Can CareShield Life payouts be used to pay nursing home fees directly?

Yes. While CareShield Life payouts are typically given in cash to the policyholder, families may request that the payout be credited directly to the nursing home’s bank account. At Orange Valley Nursing Home, this arrangement helps ensure that funds are applied straight to monthly bills. Many families appreciate this option, as it reduces the stress of handling payments and provides direct financial assistance for nursing homes, allowing care needs to remain the priority.

2. What if my MediSave balance is too low to withdraw under MediSave Care?

To use MediSave Care, a minimum balance of at least $5,000 must be maintained in the account to ensure sufficient funds for essential medical needs. If the balance falls below this, a spouse’s MediSave can be used to supplement withdrawals, up to the scheme’s limit. When this is still not enough, families can turn to other forms of support, such as ElderFund, MediFund, or subsidies offered through the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC). These programmes are designed to work together, providing families with practical options to manage long-term care costs without feeling alone in the process.

3. Can ElderShield policyholders upgrade to CareShield Life?

Yes. ElderShield policyholders have the option to upgrade to CareShield Life, with premiums already paid under ElderShield factored into the transition. Unlike ElderShield, which provided fixed payouts for a limited period, CareShield Life offers monthly benefits that increase over time and continue as long as the eligibility conditions are met. For families, this provides more reliable support when planning for a loved one’s long-term care.

4. Do Pioneer or Merdeka benefits cover nursing home costs fully?

No. The Pioneer Generation and Merdeka Generation Packages were introduced to recognise seniors for their contributions and to ease their healthcare expenses. While these packages do not pay for nursing home fees in full, they provide MediSave top-ups and healthcare subsidies that help reduce overall medical costs. With more MediSave savings available and lower bills, families find it easier to manage expenses. When combined with subsidies and other forms of financial assistance, these packages play a crucial role in making care more affordable.

5. What happens if my family still struggles after subsidies and payouts?

It is understandable for families to feel worried if costs remain difficult even after insurance payouts and subsidies. In such situations, MediFund serves as the ultimate safety net for Singaporeans who are unable to meet their medical or long-term care expenses. Applications are submitted through medical social workers, who will review the family’s financial situation and suggest suitable options for support. This process helps ensure that families are not left to manage expenses alone and that seniors continue to receive the necessary financial assistance for nursing homes and related care services.

Multi-generational family visiting elderly loved one outdoors

Conclusion

Singapore has developed a strong framework of support to help families manage the costs of nursing home care. From insurance schemes such as CareShield Life and MediSave Care, to targeted programmes like IDAPE, ElderFund, and the Pioneer and Merdeka Generation Packages, there are many layers of financial assistance for nursing homes. For those who continue to face challenges even after subsidies and payouts, MediFund provides the final safety net.

By combining these schemes, families can ease out-of-pocket expenses and make long-term residential care more manageable. This helps ensure that seniors receive the support they need without creating undue financial pressure for their loved ones. Planning early and submitting applications in a timely manner is key to accessing the broadest range of available benefits.

At Orange Valley, we are dedicated to supporting families throughout this journey. Our care team can explain eligibility, assist with applications, and guide you through available schemes and subsidies. For families who may not qualify for national assistance, Orange Valley also offers an in-house subsidy programme to help ensure that those in need continue to receive the care they deserve.

If you are considering nursing home options, reach out to us today to speak with a customer care executive or medical social worker. Together, we can navigate the financial aspects of care and ensure your loved one receives appropriate support in a safe and nurturing environment.