Home care cost gap strains over two-thirds of caregivers: report

Residents put monthly expenses at $2,400, below actual charges of $3,500.

Singaporeans expect home-based long-term care to cost about 32% less than it actually does, as more than two-thirds of caregivers report emotional stress or burnout, according to a Great Eastern study.

Respondents estimated the monthly cost of long-term care at about $2,400, compared with care provider Care@Homes' projection of about $3,500 per month.

Meanwhile, 68% of Singaporeans preferred professional care support delivered at home over institutional care settings.

Caregivers reported financial and emotional strain. About 68% said they experienced emotional stress or burnout, whilst 61% reported severe financial strain due to treatment or care costs.

Nearly half of caregivers, or 49%, have been providing care for at least three years. More than a quarter, or 28%, have been doing so for five years or more.

The study also found that 66% of caregivers aged 30 to 64 remain in full-time employment whilst providing care.

Great Eastern said the preference for home-based care reflects concerns over maintaining independence and dignity. About 79% of respondents were worried about relying on others for daily tasks, whilst 80% said they feared becoming a burden to loved ones.

The study was conducted by NielsenIQ from October 2025 to January 2026 and covered 1,000 Singapore residents aged 30 to 64.