Frequently asked questions
The questions families ask us most often, with plain answers and links to the underlying primary sources.
If your question isn’t here, tell us — we add new questions when they come up.
The most asked
How do I find out which subsidy tier I qualify for?
Call AIC CareLine on 1800-650-6060 or visit an MSF Social Service Office. They will assess your household income (per person) and confirm your tier. See the subsidy guide for the full mechanics.
My parent is being discharged in two weeks — what do I do first?
Call AIC. They have a placement priority programme for hospital discharge cases. While AIC works the placement, identify two or three homes on this directory that match your parent’s care needs and contact each home’s admissions team directly. Don’t wait for AIC to do everything.
Do I have to use AIC, or can we just call the home directly?
You can call directly. Most subsidised homes accept walk-in admission requests provided you bring documentation of household income and your parent’s care needs. AIC speeds up placement when you don’t yet have a shortlist.
Are private (non-subsidised) homes worth considering?
Sometimes. Private homes typically charge S$6,000–$10,000/month and offer private rooms, lower nurse-to-resident ratios, and often more flexibility around visiting and lifestyle. They are not safer or better-staffed by default; some are excellent, some are not. Visit before committing.
What happens if our subsidised home asks us to leave?
Subsidised homes may discharge a resident if their care needs exceed what the home is licensed to provide (e.g., uncontrolled behavioural psychosis, unmanageable wound care). AIC will help you find an alternative placement. This is uncommon for typical eldercare cases.
Can my parent stay in a nursing home short-term, like for a holiday respite?
Yes. Many homes accept respite stays (typically 1–14 days, some up to 30) when caregivers need a break. MOH subsidies apply. See the respite care page.
Are nursing homes regulated for safety?
MOH licenses every nursing home under the Healthcare Services Act (HCSA). Inspections are unannounced and findings are publicly recorded. Operators must meet minimum staffing, infection control, and clinical governance standards. Always check that any candidate facility is on the MOH licensed-providers list.
What is the difference between a nursing home and a community hospital?
A community hospital provides short-to-medium-term step-down rehabilitation, typically after an acute hospital stay. A nursing home provides long-term residential care with no expected discharge date. Some community hospitals (Ren Ci, Bright Vision, Yishun) have both step-down and long-stay beds.
Does my parent need to give up their HDB flat if they move to a nursing home?
No. HDB tenancy is not affected by a stay in a nursing home. Many residents keep their flat for the family or for the possibility of returning home. Speak to HDB if you’re considering selling or sub-letting.
What if my parent has dementia and refuses to go?
Speak to the home’s admissions team about a graduated admission — day visits first, then short trial stays, then full move-in. This is well-established practice for dementia residents. AIC and most VWO homes have dedicated dementia care coordinators.
Can the doctor at our family GP continue to see my parent in the home?
Generally yes for chronic disease management. The home’s visiting doctor typically takes over acute issues. Discuss with both your GP and the home’s clinical lead before admission.
Is the cost the same for Permanent Residents?
No. PRs get a lower MOH portable subsidy at every tier (50% at the top tier, vs 75% for SC). Net cost is correspondingly higher. PRs are still eligible for CareShield Life and MediSave Care if they meet the criteria.
Where to go next
- Subsidy guide — the four schemes explained in plain English.
- What it actually costs — before and after subsidy, with a worked example.
- How to choose — the doctor’s framework for the visit.
- Compare facilities — put two or three side-by-side.
Last fact-checked: 9 June 2026. See the latest audit report for sources and methodology.