Availability of Places in Senior Group Homes and Take-up Rate

Mr Darryl David asked the Minister for Social and Family Development (a) how many places in Senior Group Homes are currently available; and (b) what has been the take-up rate for these places.

Mr Tan Chuan-Jin: The Senior Group Homes (SGHs) promote ageing in place for frail seniors without family support and living in HDB rental flats. Each Home comprises five to eight rental flats, and each flat is shared among two to three seniors. MSF appoints voluntary welfare organisations to coordinate and provide services, such as home care services, to the residents. The seniors are also encouraged to participate in social activities and to provide mutual support to one another. There are currently 14 SGHs of which 11 started operations from late 2015. The Homes can accommodate up to 250 seniors.

As at end April 2016, 39 seniors are residing at the Senior Group Homes. MSF is working with MOH and other partners to improve coordination of care options in the community, to enable seniors to age-in-place.