Building a community of support

"It has been said that in one’s life, one either is a caregiver, was a caregiver or will be a caregiver”, noted Anita Fam, President of the National Council of Social Service (NCSS) in her message for the Understanding the Quality of Life of Caregivers Study.

This highlights a reality rapidly approaching Singapore: caregiving is not just a personal challenge but a societal issue. By 2030, Singapore’s population is aging swiftly with one in four Singaporeans expected to be 65 or older. This demographic change means that for many, stepping into the role of a caregiver will no longer be a distant prospect but an immediate responsibility. It will bring about changes in not just their daily lives, but also their family dynamics and the broader social fabric of the nation.

The study by NCSS was conducted to gain deeper insights into understanding the needs of caregivers from their own perspectives, with the goal of enhancing support systems. The findings were significant – one in four caregivers expressed a need for additional services, particularly in therapy.

It was also found that a small percentage of caregivers dedicate between 91 to 168 hours per week to caregiving – more than double the 43.6 hours of a typical work week in Singapore. This is akin to holding down two full-time jobs, a level of commitment that is not only physically exhausting and emotionally draining but often leaves little room for rest.

The well-being of caregivers has far-reaching impact. When caregivers experience burnout, the repercussions extend across the system. The quality of care they provide to their loved ones can suffer, sometimes leading to early institutionalisation for the care recipient and increasing the risk of harmful behaviour being directed towards them.

The issue of caregivers’ burnout extends beyond personal struggle; it also affects healthcare systems, raises societal costs and can diminish the quality of life for everyone involved.

Signs that you may require support (Graphics: AsiaOne/Deborah Tan).

As the number of caregivers continues to rise, we must ask ourselves: how can we, as a society, reframe our approach to caregiving to ensure it is sustainable for both those providing care and those receiving it?

While training in caregiving skills is important, it is equally crucial that we prioritise emotional support for caregivers. Their well-being is essential not only for their own health but for the quality and sustainability of care they provide.

To address these challenges, a range of resources exists to empower caregivers and enhance their quality of life. These resources such as counselling services, peer support networks, and respite care are vital in helping caregivers manage stress, avoid burnout, and maintain their emotional and psychological well-being. By integrating these forms of support into the caregiving experience, we can create a more holistic and sustainable system that benefits caregivers and care recipients alike.

Resources