As a caregiver, it’s not easy to juggle taking care of loved ones and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. It’s even more challenging when you’re a single parent with four children. But Mr Tan, a single father in Singapore, found help from a caregiver programme that has made all the difference in his life.
The Straits Times recently reported on Mr Tan’s story of struggling to take care of his four children, while also working full time. It was particularly difficult for him when his eldest daughter needed medical attention and he had to take leave from work to accompany her to the hospital. He felt helpless and was worried about the impact on his job.
Fortunately, Mr Tan found a solution in a caregiver programme run by Lions Befrienders. The programme, called Caregivers First, provides support and resources to caregivers who are taking care of elderly or vulnerable loved ones.
The Caregivers First programme provides a range of services, including training and education, counselling, and support groups. It also offers respite care for caregivers who need a break from their caregiving responsibilities.
Mr Tan shared that the programme has been a tremendous help to him and his family. He no longer feels alone in his caregiving journey and has found comfort in connecting with other caregivers who understand what he’s going through.
The Caregivers First programme is just one example of the resources and support available to caregivers in Singapore. If you’re a caregiver, or know someone who is, there are many ways to find help and support.
Support and Resources for Caregivers
- Singapore Association for Mental Health (SAMH)
SAMH offers a range of services for caregivers, including counselling, support groups, and caregiver training. They also provide respite care and home-based care services for elderly or vulnerable individuals.
- Agency for Integrated Care (AIC)
AIC provides resources and information for caregivers, including caregiver training, support groups, and information on financial assistance and government schemes.
- Alzheimer’s Disease Association (ADA)
ADA offers support and resources for caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. This includes counselling, support groups, and training for caregivers.
- Caregivers Alliance Limited (CAL)
CAL provides a range of services for caregivers, including counselling, support groups, and caregiver training. They also offer respite care and home-based care services for elderly or vulnerable individuals.
- Lions Befrienders
Lions Befrienders’ Caregivers First programme provides support and resources for caregivers who are taking care of elderly or vulnerable loved ones.
- CareConnect by SG Assist
CareConnect provides caregivers with a comprehensive approach that includes expert guidance and personalised digital tools to support them in navigating the challenges and complexities of their caregiving journey. Additionally, SG Assist offers a service through the KampungHero app that crowdsources nearby volunteers to provide timely assistance to app users who make requests, such as help with buying groceries or takeaway food for the elderly.
Conclusion
Being a caregiver can be a challenging and emotional journey, but it’s important to know that you’re not alone. There are resources and support available to help you navigate the caregiving journey and take care of yourself as well.
If you’re a caregiver, don’t hesitate to reach out for help and support. And if you know someone who is a caregiver, offer a listening ear or lend a hand to show your support and appreciation. We can all make a difference in the lives of caregivers and those they care for.
At SG Assist, we understand that caregiving can be tough, but we’re here to help. Our goal is to provide you with the resources and support you need to make your caregiving journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. Visit our websites at SG Assist and CareConnect, and our Caregiver Resource Centre, to find the information and tools you need to take care of yourself and your loved ones. We also invite you to stay up-to-date with the latest news and resources by filling out our form here. Let SG Assist be your partner in caregiving.
References
“It was hard whenever we saw a family”: Single father of four finds help from caregiver programme. (2023, May 8). The Straits Times. https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/community/it-was-hard-whenever-we-saw-a-family-single-father-of-four-finds-help-from-caregiver-programme
