The Seniors’ Mobility and Enabling Fund (SMF) and Assistive Technology Fund (ATF) in Singapore will be enhanced to expand support for seniors and persons with disabilities, and improve client centricity by having each scheme support individuals throughout their lifetime without the need to apply to different schemes at various points.

This was announced by Masagos Zulkifli, Minister for Social and Family Development and Second Minister for Health. The changes to both funds will take effect from 14 February 2022.

Seniors will be able to receive subsidies for replacement, customised and specialised devices under the SMF, so that they only need to apply to this scheme. Seniors can also receive higher subsidies for selected device categories under the SMF.

As devices undergo wear and tear in the normal course of use, from 14 February 2022, SMF can be used for replacements when the current device reaches the end of its lifespan. This will strengthen the support for seniors, as they can continue to make use of the devices they need to help them age well in the community, and will help them and their caregivers defray long-term care expenses.

In addition, the ATF will be enhanced such that seniors with disabilities who are Singapore Citizens can claim for items that were previously covered only under the SMF (e.g. oxygen concentrator, suction pumps, spectacles).