Subsidies for Senior Equipment and Assistive Devices in Singapore

As seniors age, many require assistive devices and equipment to maintain their independence, safety, and quality of life. From wheelchairs and walking frames to hospital beds and shower chairs, the right equipment can make the difference between a senior being able to remain at home and needing residential care. However, the cost of these devices can be a significant concern for families.

Singapore provides several subsidy schemes that make assistive devices and home modifications substantially more affordable. This guide covers the key programmes, what they cover, and how to access them.

Seniors' Mobility and Enabling Fund

The Seniors' Mobility and Enabling Fund (SMF) is the primary government scheme for subsidising assistive devices, consumables, and home modifications for seniors in Singapore. Administered by the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC), the fund has helped hundreds of thousands of seniors access the equipment they need.

What the SMF Covers

The SMF provides subsidies for three broad categories of support.

Assistive devices include wheelchairs, motorised scooters, walking frames and walking sticks, hearing aids, pressure-relieving mattresses, hospital beds, shower chairs and commodes, transfer aids such as sliding boards and transfer belts, and orthotic and prosthetic devices.

Consumables include incontinence products such as adult diapers and pads, wound care supplies, and catheter supplies. These recurring costs can add up quickly, and the SMF subsidy helps make them manageable.

Home modifications include grab bars in bathrooms and corridors, ramps for wheelchair access, door widening, toilet modifications including raised toilet seats and bidet attachments, and non-slip flooring in wet areas.

Eligibility and Subsidy Levels

To be eligible for the SMF, the senior must be a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident aged 60 and above, or a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident of any age with a disability. The subsidy level is means-tested based on per capita household income.

For households with per capita monthly income of $800 or below, the subsidy covers up to 90 per cent of the cost. For per capita monthly income between $801 and $1,200, the subsidy covers up to 75 per cent. For per capita monthly income between $1,201 and $2,600, the subsidy covers up to 50 per cent. For per capita monthly income above $2,600, a fixed co-payment applies.