MOH should expand home care’s reach for geriatric patients

I refer to Mr David Soh’s letter “Cheaper to help families hire home care, helpers” (Aug 5). A maid cares for my bedridden 93-year-old mother. The levy was waived, which is contingent on meeting the required means test.

My siblings and I are also thankful for the substantial government subsidy for her medication, as well as her diapers and dressings for her bedsores. The occasional consultations with home care doctors are subsidised likewise.

At Alexandra Hospital, where Mum was hospitalised thrice last year, the doctors, nurses, physiotherapists and social workers were exemplary in ensuring her stay and discharge were comfortable, efficient and, above all, pleasantly memorable.

A social worker methodically worked out the details regarding Mum’s home care. She assisted us in sourcing for an electrically operated bed, including a special mattress to reduce the incidence of bedsores, and a wheelchair to facilitate showering.

She also provided us with links to meet Mum’s medicinal and related needs. All these items were heavily subsidised.

It has been a relief to my siblings and me, who are retirees, that Mum can be cared for at home under such schemes. She is pleased because her wish has always been to spend her final years at home.

We visit her regularly, help care for her as best as we can, talk to her and do whatever is necessary to make her non-ambulant life warmer and more meaningful.

I endorse Mr Soh’s request to rethink having nursing homes run by the Health Ministry. The public hospitals and home care programmes are excellent, so it would be appreciated if the ministry can expand the reach and comprehensiveness of home care, especially for geriatric patients.