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Lions Befrienders Relying on Technology to Elevate Eldercare Service in Singapore


Karen Wee Siew Lin, Executive Director of Lions Befrienders Service Association (LBSA)
Karen Wee Siew Lin, Executive Director of Lions Befrienders Service Association (LBSA) delivered a speech at ACIF of Cares Expo 2024

The landscape of eldercare in Singapore has transformed significantly over the years, reflecting the city-state’s proactive response to an aging population. With over 1 million residents projected to be above the age of 65 by 2030, Singapore faces unique challenges tied to its limited land area, low taxation rates, and a commitment to sustaining economic growth.


This article, based on the sourcingcares’ interview at the Asia Pacific Care Industry Forum (ACIF) of the Cares Expo Taipei 2024, with Karen Wee Siew Lin, Executive Director of Lions Befrienders Service Association (LBSA), explores the evolution of Singapore’s eldercare policies, the current focus on community-based care, and how Lions Befrienders, a leading organization in this sector, is leveraging technology to meet the demands of this demographic shift.


The development of eldercare in Singapore


In the 1960s and 70s, community centers played a crucial role in fostering social connections and providing recreational activities for Singaporeans, including the elderly. By the 1980s and 90s, these spaces evolved into Senior Activity Centers (SACs), focusing primarily on low-income seniors in rental flats. Over time, Singapore’s eldercare model matured to address the holistic needs of seniors, leading to the establishment of Active Aging Centers (AACs) in 2021. These centers provide integrated care—covering social, emotional, physical, and mental health dimensions—and serve as the go-to point for all seniors above 60, regardless of their health status.


Government policies have also shifted from institutional to community-based care, emphasizing preventive measures to keep seniors healthy and active. AACs are a cornerstone of this strategy, typically serving seniors within 30 to 40 housing blocks and managed by one service provider to ensure localized and personalized care. They act as community hubs where seniors can access health screenings, participate in activities, and receive wellness guidance. By offering such comprehensive support, AACs help reduce costly hospitalizations and nursing home admissions, aligning with Singapore’s broader goal of supporting seniors to age in place. Complementing AACs are home care services and innovative housing solutions designed to enhance accessibility and independence for seniors.


Lions Befrienders Service Association (LBSA) stands out as a key player in Singapore’s eldercare sector. Established nearly three decades ago, this nonprofit organization operates under the Ministry of Health’s guidance and is tasked with serving 27,000 seniors by 2030. LBSA’s mission is to empower seniors to age in place with dignity, aligning with the World Health Organization’s eight dimensions of quality of life.


Tackling labor constraints with technology


Singapore’s eldercare sector faces significant labor constraints, as the demand for caregiving services outpaces the supply of trained professionals. LBSA addresses this challenge by integrating technology to supplement and streamline caregiving tasks.


LBSA is recognized for pioneering eldercare innovations, particularly in integrating technology to enhance care delivery. When Lin took over as Executive Director in 2020, the organization expanded its reach from 6,000 to 14,000 seniors while increasing staff by only 20. This efficiency was achieved through strategic deployment of technology, underscoring LBSA’s commitment to sustainable and scalable care solutions.


Key initiatives include the “IM-OK” and “IM-Healthy” systems. IM-OK is a tablet-based system that allows seniors to self-report their well-being daily by tapping an “I’m OK” button. It also integrates features like medication reminders and online consultations. Lin explained, "IM-OK empowers seniors to proactively self-report their well-being at home," underscoring its role in reducing the need for constant manpower. On the other hand, IM-Healthy stations, located at AACs, enable seniors to monitor their vital health metrics such as blood pressure and BMI. This data is accessible to both seniors and their families, fostering preventive care practices.


LBSA’s collaboration with Delta Electronics led to the creation of AIDEN, an autonomous mobile robot designed to deliver meals, groceries, and medication to homebound seniors. This innovative solution addresses labor shortages and ensures timely service delivery, demonstrating how technology can be a game-changer in eldercare.


Another notable example is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for early detection of mental health issues, such as dementia. LBSA employs AI-driven screening tools to identify seniors at risk of cognitive decline, enabling timely interventions through customized activities and programs at AACs. "By catching early signs of dementia, we aim to slow its progression and reduce the strain on resources," said Lin, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures. These measures not only improve the quality of care but also reduce the need for intensive, resource-heavy interventions in the future.


This data-driven approach ensures that LBSA can deliver high-quality care to a growing population without proportional increases in manpower.


Sustainability through funding and partnerships


LBSA’s financial model relies on a mix of government grants, private donations, and corporate sponsorships. Approximately 50% of its funding comes from the government, with the remaining 50% sourced through partnerships, community contributions, and subsequent matching of donations by the government and related bodies. The organization’s approach to technology adoption—leveraging grants and sponsorships to pilot and scale innovations—has further bolstered its sustainability.


For instance, LBSA’s technology initiatives have attracted support from various foundations and private sector entities. By showcasing the long-term cost savings and improved outcomes associated with these technologies, LBSA has secured continued investment in its programs. This model not only ensures the organization’s sustainability but also reduces the financial burden on Singapore’s healthcare system.


Shaping the future of eldercare in Singapore


As Singapore continues to navigate the complexities of an aging society, organizations like Lions Befrienders play a crucial role in eldercare sector. By focusing on community-based care, leveraging technology, and fostering sustainable partnerships, LBSA exemplifies how innovation can address both immediate and long-term challenges in this sector.


Notes: For more details about ACIF and Cares Expo Taipei, please check the website or contact Juihui Lin via lin@ankemedia.com for more info.

 

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