UNDERSTANDING HOW COMMUNITY-BASED ELDERCARE SERVICES ADAPT IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS IN SINGAPORE

Abstract

This study investigated service adaptation strategies that community-based eldercare services (CES) in Singapore adopted in view of the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. Strengths and challenges of these strategies were also examined. Maslow’s (1943; 1954) hierarchy of needs framework and Kirst-Ashman and Hull’s (2009) planned change process framework were used to guide understanding of decision-making variables during service adaptation. A qualitative study using semistructured interviews was conducted individually with 11 social service staff from various CES in Singapore. Findings indicated that two main forms of service adaptation emerged – increasing engagement with stakeholders and increased use of telecommunication modalities. Resulting benefits included perceived enhancement of social connectedness and social engagement for service users, and new opportunities for CES to review operations, tap on increased visibility of service users, and appreciate service users’ resilience. However, difficulties using telecommunications, resource constraints, and work stressors remain. It is recommended that CES providers implement supportive workplace practices, complement direct service provision with technology, and leverage on opportunities to improve the social environments of community-dwelling older adults.