FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR SENIORS AND PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES WHO REQUIRE HEARING AIDS

NOTICE PAPER NO. 506
NOTICE OF QUESTION FOR WRITTEN ANSWER
FOR THE SITTING OF PARLIAMENT ON 24 FEBRUARY 2026

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament
Mr Christopher de Souza
MP for Holland-Bukit Timah GRC

Question No. 1003
To ask the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health in light of how hearing loss can affect quality of life, social inclusion and mental wellness, particularly in Singapore's ageing population, whether the Government will consider expanding the use of MediSave funds for the purchase of hearing aids and other essential hearing devices.

Answer

1        Seniors and Persons with Disabilities who require hearing aids may tap on the Seniors’ Mobility and Enabling Fund (SMF) and the Assistive Technology Fund (ATF) respectively. These schemes provide means-tested subsidies of up to 90% for eligible Singaporeans. The monthly per capita household income eligibility cap for these subsidies was raised from $2,600 to $4,800 in January 2026, to allow more individuals to benefit. Those with severe hearing loss who require costlier hearing devices, such as cochlear implants, may also tap on subsidies, MediSave and MediShield Life for these. The MediSave and MediShield Life limits for these were also enhanced in April 2025, as part of the MediShield Life 2024 review.

2        Singaporeans who require further financial assistance for essential hearing devices can approach the Agency for Integrated Care, SG Enable or medical social workers at our public hospitals for further support. No one will be denied appropriate healthcare due to an inability to pay.