I am a caregiver to my
90-year-old mother, who is grappling with Parkinson's disease and resides in a
nursing home. My mother is heavily dependent on her six children for emotional
support and to keep her spirits high. Unfortunately, not all my siblings can
visit regularly as they work long hours, and some have their own health issues.
Caring for the aged sick is a
mammoth task. With many adult children having to work long hours, there is
hardly any time for them to look after their aged parents.
Those in this predicament have
little choice but to turn to nursing homes so that they have peace of mind
knowing the professionals can provide the best care to their aged parents.
While hiring a maid to take
care of the aged sick is an alternative that will reduce the financial costs,
there have been cases of abuse on either side.
I agree with Mr Leong Kok Seng
that government support would help better manage Singapore's ageing population
("Make it easier to care for Singapore's aged"; last Friday).
One way is for the Government to
provide a monthly allowance for family caregivers.
This can be in the form of a
ride-on under the Silver Support Scheme.
The maid levy can also be made
more attractive so that it does not place a heavy financial burden on
caregivers.
Raymond Anthony Fernando
http://www.straitstimes.com/premium/forum-letters/story/give-caregiver-allowance-help-costs-20150420
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