It is heartening to hear that Singaporeans will have the option of home-based care as we grow older (More home-based care options likely for seniors; Jan 28).

Nursing homes are well and good, but a person's own home provides familiarity. Research has shown that people tend to recover faster and age better in a familiar environment.

People also desire personalised services, to lead life with respect, and to live independently with dignity and on their own terms.

This contributes to the increasing demand for home-based care services, care companions and medical escorts.

This feeds into another issue - respite care. Most caregivers have to juggle work, family and other commitments. This will definitely take a toll on them. Caregivers need breaks to recharge and take stock of their lives.

There is no shortage of freelance caregivers signed up on private caregiver platforms.

Encouraging a public-private partnership would be a step in the right direction to address the needs of an ageing nation.

The Government need not be burdened with coming up with solutions alone. Private care providers have their strengths in identifying and responding to needs dynamically. They can be active partners and take on the shared responsibility.

Sheo S. Rai