The city-state of Singapore has reaffirmed that persons living with dementia and their caregivers will continue to receive strong support, following public concern over whether dementia is sufficiently addressed under the national disability agenda.
In a statement on Friday, the Ministry of Health (MOH) stressed that access to support is not dependent on how a condition is classified.
“While the Enabling Masterplan focuses on persons with physical, intellectual and sensory impairments, as well as autism, the Agency for Integrated Care has in place various initiatives to support those living with dementia and their caregivers,” MOH said.
The Ministry added: “Community services such as dementia day care, community outreach teams and community intervention teams are available to provide care and intervention for persons living with dementia, and provide support for their caregivers.”
Among the initiatives is the Dementia-Friendly Singapore movement, which aims to create an inclusive society through greater community involvement.
The Dementia-Friendly Communities, set up with the support of MOH and local partners, follow the “3Es” framework – Engage, Empower and Enable – to promote prevention, early detection and stronger caregiver support.
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Community programmes & support groups boost dementia care
Singapore has also broadened its community programmes through DementiaHub.SG and Dementia Singapore, giving patients and caregivers more ways to find support.
Among the initiatives offered are “Voices for Hope,” a free 10-week programme that helps people with dementia and their care partners speak up and share their experiences, and “Memories Café,” where music, movement and group activities create a safe space for connection.
Caregivers are also not left behind. They have access to support groups in hospitals and communities – available in different languages.
The “Caregiver Support Network” brings caregivers together, offering peer support and wellness activities to help ease the daily challenges of care.
“The government will continue to support persons living with dementia and their caregivers,” MOH said.
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