Singapore: Characteristics of family caregivers and care recipients and their caregiving experiences

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to sketch a broad profile of family caregivers in Singapore, looking after the elderly, sick, and disabled. A survey form was used to capture basic demographic and caregiving activities among family caregivers in the community. The results, based on a sample size of 323, showed that the caregivers and care recipients were predominantly female. A majority of the caregivers were middle-aged and married. Slightly more than half were employed and about 40% were homemakers and retirees. The sample also comprised mostly those with lower incomes. Care recipients were mostly parents and a majority lived with their caregivers. Caregiving activities were frequently "light," such as accompanying care recipients on hospital/clinic visits, providing emotional support, etc., as compared to "heavier" duties, such as feeding, bathing, toileting, and dressing. The study suggests that there is much scope in introducing caregiver support services. © 2008, Hallym Aging Research Institute, Hallym University.