SINGAPORE – In an inspiring move to support caregivers, Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH) has unveiled CarePal, an innovative online platform designed to empower individuals like Ms. Jean Lim, who recently faced the challenges of caring for her ailing mother.

In February, Ms. Lim found herself navigating unfamiliar territory after her 71-year-old mother suffered a fall at an MRT station, leading to necessary leg surgery and a diagnosis of degenerative disc disease—a painful condition affecting the spine.

Despite her mother's desire to maintain her independence by living alone post-surgery, Ms. Lim, a busy mother of three aged four to 13, quickly realized the extensive responsibility that caregiving entails. From safety modifications like installing grab bars in the shower to organizing home therapy sessions, the demands were overwhelming.

"I was completely caught off guard," confessed Ms. Lim, who works in finance. "I had no idea where to seek assistance." That’s where CarePal steps in.

Part of the NHG Health mobile app, CarePal serves as a one-stop resource for caregivers. Users can create personalized profiles for their loved ones and receive customized resource packages tailored to specific caregiving needs.

One standout feature is the caregiving calculator, which estimates the financial costs associated with care, enabling families to budget better. Additionally, the platform offers a rich library of informative articles, videos, and infographics, covering everything from community services to self-care tips for caregivers who often neglect their own well-being.

CarePal is a significant element of Project Carer Matters 2, an initiative aimed at enhancing the caregiving framework in Singapore. Backed by the National Research Foundation, this project builds upon earlier efforts launched during the COVID-19 pandemic that identified the pressing challenges faced by family caregivers.

TTSH is partnering with the Home Nursing Foundation to develop a befriending program, pairing experienced caregivers with those new to the role for shared support. TTSH’s Nursing Deputy Director, Chan Ee Yuee, emphasizes the urgent need for more support systems, especially given a 2019 study revealing that nearly one-third of caregivers experience depression and diminished quality of life.

With an estimation of 210,000 full-time caregivers in Singapore— a figure projected to soar alongside the aging population—these initiatives have never been more critical. By 2030, over 21% of Singapore’s residents will be aged 65 or older.

Dr. Chan envisions CarePal as a vital tool for all caregivers across Singapore, not solely for those within the NHG Health cluster. The project is also trialing an advanced fall detection system developed by Conex Healthcare, utilizing smart cameras and thermal imaging to promptly alert caregivers and emergency services in the event of a fall—a comforting addition for caregivers like Ms. Lim, who now has it set up in her mother's home.

"For those of us who can’t be there every day, this technology really brings peace of mind," she shared, highlighting the importance of innovative solutions in the journey of caregiving.