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Home ModificationUpdated July 2026 · 9 min read
Most elderly falls in Singapore happen at home — and most of those falls are preventable with targeted modifications. For HDB flat residents, the Singapore government provides two main subsidy schemes: HDB EASE for physical modifications (ramps, anti-slip flooring, grab bar installation), and AIC SMF for equipment (walkers, wheelchairs, shower chairs — not grab bars). This guide explains what can be modified, what each scheme covers, and how to apply.
Two schemes, one goal — keeping your loved one safe at home
HDB EASE — covers physical modifications: ramps, anti-slip treatment, grab bar installation labour
AIC SMF — covers equipment purchase: walkers, wheelchairs, commodes, shower chairs (up to 90%)
Start with an OT home assessment — required for both schemes
Many families apply for both schemes together
Covers physical modifications to HDB flats: ramps, anti-slip floor treatment, grab bar installation (labour), widened toilet entrance. Available to HDB residents with a senior aged 65+ or person with disability. Subsidy level based on flat type.
Full HDB EASE guide →Covers the cost of assistive devices: walkers, rollators, wheelchairs, commodes, shower chairs, fall detection devices. Not grab bars — HDB covers those under EASE. For Singapore Citizens and PRs aged 60+ with assessed household income ≤ S$4,800/month per capita.
Full AIC SMF guide →| Modification | HDB EASE | AIC SMF |
|---|---|---|
| Grab bars & handrails | Covered | Not covered |
| Foldable shower seat (wall-mounted) | Covered | Not covered |
| Slip-resistant floor treatment | Covered | Not covered |
| Ramps at the entrance or bathroom | Covered | Not covered |
| Shower chair or stool | Not covered | Up to 90%, capped per device |
| Raised toilet seat | Not covered | Up to 90%, capped per device |
| Toilet safety frame | Not covered | Up to 90%, capped per device |
| Commode chair | Not covered | Up to 90%, capped per device |
| Walking stick | Not covered | Up to 90%, capped per device |
| Quad cane | Not covered | Up to 90%, capped per device |
| Walker or rollator | Not covered | Up to 90%, capped per device |
| Wheelchair (manual) | Not covered | Up to 90%, capped per device |
| Motorised scooter | Not covered | Up to 90%, capped per device |
| Bed rail | Not covered | Up to 90%, capped per device |
| Hospital bed | Not covered | Up to 90%, capped per device |
| Pressure relief cushion or mattress | Not covered | Up to 90%, capped per device |
| GPS tracking pendant | Not covered | Up to 90%, capped per device |
| Fall detection watch | Not covered | Up to 90%, capped per device |
| Loose anti-slip bath mat | Not covered | Not covered |
| Stairlift | Not covered | Not covered |
| Motion sensor lights | Not covered | Not covered |
The single most impactful modification for fall prevention. Install grab bars next to the toilet, at the shower entry, and along the bathroom wall. In HDB flats, bars must be drilled into wall studs or tiled walls with appropriate anchors — improper installation is dangerous. Professional installation is covered under HDB EASE.
HDB bathroom tiles become extremely slippery when wet. Anti-slip treatment is applied to the existing tile surface — no tiling work required. It increases grip without changing the appearance of the floor. Cost from S$200–400 per bathroom, subsidised under HDB EASE.
HDB flats often have a raised threshold at the main door or bathroom entrance that is a tripping hazard for seniors with limited foot clearance. A small ramp (typically 50–150mm rise) can be installed to eliminate the step. HDB EASE covers ramp installation at the main entrance and within the flat.
For wheelchair users, standard HDB interior doorways (approximately 700mm) may be too narrow. Doorway widening is a structural modification that requires HDB approval. This is not covered by EASE but may be funded through other social assistance schemes — speak with an AIC case manager.
Automatic night lights along the bedroom-to-bathroom route eliminate the need to reach for light switches at night. Sensor lights cost S$5–30 each and can be installed without an electrician. Not covered by HDB EASE or SMF, but extremely cost-effective — among the cheapest impactful fall prevention measures.
A wall-mounted fold-down shower seat saves space in small HDB bathrooms. Fixed shower chairs are also available. Both the equipment cost (AIC SMF) and installation in an HDB flat (HDB EASE) may be subsidised separately.
Bed rails, lowering the bed height, and clearing trip hazards around the sleeping area reduce nighttime fall risk. Bed rails are AIC SMF eligible. If your HDB bedroom has a raised flooring feature, eliminating it is advisable — this requires a contractor.
Step 1: Book an OT home assessment
An occupational therapist visits your HDB flat, assesses risks, and recommends specific modifications. This is required for both AIC SMF and HDB EASE applications. Book via AIC at 1800-650-6060 or through a polyclinic.
Step 2: Apply for HDB EASE
Submit the EASE application to HDB via their website or estate office. Include the OT recommendation letter. HDB approves the scope of work and appoints an approved contractor to carry out modifications.
Step 3: Apply for AIC SMF
For equipment your loved one uses and carries — walkers, wheelchairs, commodes, shower chairs — submit a separate SMF application to AIC. Not grab bars: those are an EASE item, bar and labour together.
Step 4: HDB appoints contractor
For EASE-covered modifications, HDB assigns their approved contractor — you do not need to find your own contractor. The contractor carries out the work and bills HDB directly. You pay only your co-payment (if any).
Step 5: Purchase equipment
After AIC SMF approval, purchase the approved equipment from an AIC-approved vendor. Pay your co-payment share only.
If you can only modify one area, make it the bathroom. It is statistically the most dangerous room in the home for elderly falls — wet surfaces, the physical effort of sitting and standing, and confined spaces all combine. A grab bar beside the toilet, anti-slip floor treatment, and a shower chair address the highest risks for the lowest cost.
10 practical fall prevention tips for Singapore homes →Tell HomeWise about your loved one's situation — we'll recommend specific modifications, identify which subsidies apply, and show you product options.
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