Encourage and subsidise elder-minding schemes
This letter was sent to The Straits Times and published on 25 August 2025
We refer to the article “More families in Singapore using childminding and elder-minding services” (Aug 15).
The Humanitarian Organisation for Migration Economics (Home) strongly supports the continuation of elder-minding services under the Household Services Scheme, which presents an option for families employing migrant domestic workers (MDWs).
Many elder-minders were previously MDWs who prefer their current roles due to more structured working hours. MDWs often work excessively long hours due to their exclusion from the Employment Act, and are compelled to perform a wide array of duties on top of caregiving. This has significant adverse effects on their physical and mental health, including overwork and burnout, which also compromise the quality of care provided.
Home advocates that MDWs have weekly, 24-hour rest days. We have assisted many MDWs who lack weekly rest days, and must complete multiple chores on their rest day, which affects their ability to rest and recharge.
There are no mandatory weekly rest days for MDWs, and the Ministry of Manpower has said that defining a rest day as 24 hours will impose “rigidity” on employers.
Ad-hoc elder-minding services offer an option for families who require an alternative care solution when MDWs have rest days. Families can access support for their loved ones, and MDWs gain much-needed rest and recuperation, which is crucial for the well-being of both caregivers and those they care for.
As Singapore is set to become a super-aged society by 2026, the need to have a variety of affordable eldercare options that respect the rights of caregivers is pressing. This is a collective responsibility and families should not be expected to solely shoulder the logistical and financial burdens.
Eldercare caregiving schemes need to be encouraged and subsidised by the state, to ensure accessibility for families of all income levels, that caregivers are afforded basic labour rights, including adequate rest, and that providers of eldercare services can remain financially viable.
Jaya Anil Kumar
Senior Manager, Research and Advocacy
Humanitarian Organisation for Migration Economics