When we think about long-term care, many of us picture ageing parents in nursing homes. However, new findings from Great Eastern’s latest Long-Term Care Study show that long-term disability can affect people of all ages, creating emotional, physical and financial strain for families.
The study found that 68% of Singaporeans would rather receive professional care at home than in an institution, driven by a strong desire to maintain independence, dignity and familiar surroundings. When asked what worried them most about disability, respondents pointed to becoming a burden to loved ones (80%), losing their independence and dignity (79%), and feeling socially isolated (66%).
“We now recognise that long-term care is no longer solely about fulfilling medical needs. There is a desire by Singaporeans to maintain their dignity when under long-term medical care,” said Kwek-Perroy Li Choo, managing director at Great Eastern.
The study also shows that long-term care is not only an age-related concern. According to Great Eastern’s claims data, 62% of GREAT CareShield claimants are below the age of 50, while close to three in ten disability claims are linked to injuries. Among injury-related claims, almost two-thirds involve individuals aged between 30 and 39, often during their prime working and family-building years.
Cost is another major consideration. Respondents estimated monthly home-care costs at around S$2,400, but Care@Homes puts the figure closer to S$3,500 — about 32% higher. This also exceeds the basic S$689 monthly payout from CareShield Life in 2026, highlighting the need for additional planning and protection.
For parents and caregivers, these findings are a timely reminder that long-term care planning should begin well before it becomes necessary. Beyond financial protection, families should also consider the practical support, caregiving resources and community networks that can help them navigate unexpected life events. Planning ahead can help preserve not just financial stability, but also dignity, well-being and quality of life.
