More Than 2,100 People Benefited From IDAPE

30 Oct 2002

Since its introduction in July this year, 2,156 have benefited from the Interim Disability Assistance Programme for the Elderly (IDAPE).

IDAPE applications have come in since July. As at 28 Oct 02, 2,156 IDAPE applications have been approved.

Claims submitted by Voluntary Welfare Organisations

Besides individuals, Voluntary Welfare Organisations (VWO) nursing homes and other step-down care service providers can also submit IDAPE claims on behalf of their patients. To date, 28 VWOs have submitted applications on behalf of their patients.

Apex Harmony Lodge is one of the homes that submitted IDAPE claims on behalf of its patients. Out of its 94 applicants, 90 were successful and have received $100 or $150 through IDAPE, amounting to $13,400 in total payouts.

More can benefit from IDAPE

While the response to IDAPE has been encouraging, we believe that there are many more out there who could qualify for IDAPE benefits but have not submitted an application.

The Ministry had earlier decided to give a concession to those who qualify for IDAPE to receive their first payment in October if they submitted their applications between 1st July and 30th September 02. For these people, the 90-day Deferment Period for pay out would be waived. We are pleased to extend this concession till the end of the year, i.e. 31 December 02. This means that those who apply before 31 December 02 need not wait 90 days to receive their cash payout. This would give those who are already disabled more time to submit their IDAPE applications.

Those who claim for IDAPE from next year onwards would be subject to the 90-day Deferment Period for pay out . The Ministry hopes that more elderly will make use of this scheme and enjoy the benefits that it offers to needy Singaporeans.