WE THANK Mr David Soh Poh Huat for his letter, "Make it easier to hire maids to care for the elderly" (my paper, Nov 11).

The job scope of foreign domestic workers (FDWs) typically includes performing household chores as well as caring for young children and the elderly.

As household habits vary, it would be impractical for FDWs to commute daily to meet the varying needs of their employers. Thus, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) requires all FDWs to work and live in their employers' homes.

Elderly persons who need only part-time care arrangements and not a live-in FDW may choose to make use of the Government's Home Help services, which help seniors age-in-place in the community.

These include meal delivery, personal-care hygiene, housekeeping and laundry services. Those who are interested in such services can read more about them at www.aic.sg

Mr Soh also asked for a review of the FDW levy.

Employers who need FDWs to care for elderly household members already enjoy a concessionary rate of $170 per month. The normal levy is $265.

MOMdoes give special consideration to households that have elderly persons and which may need a second FDW.

Employers can apply for the second FDW through the usual process, and can also do so online.

MOM will process each application on its own merit. There is no need for an employer to write in for special approval.

Online applications are processed within one working day. Employers can call the MOM Contact Centre on 6438-5122 for more details.

Ms Farah Abdul Rahim
Director
Corporate Communications
Ministry of Manpower

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