As Singapore’s population ages, many elderly individuals are living with disabilities that make daily life increasingly difficult. Tasks most of us take for granted—like eating, walking, or getting dressed—can become overwhelming without help. This not only affects seniors but also places emotional and financial strain on their caregivers.
To ease this burden, the Singaporean government offers various forms of assistance. One vital initiative is the Pioneer Generation Disability Assistance Scheme (PioneerDAS). This program provides a monthly cash grant to seniors with significant physical limitations—ensuring they receive the support they deserve.
What Is PioneerDAS?
PioneerDAS is a government-run financial aid program that grants eligible seniors S$100 per month to help with their daily care and living needs. This cash payout is part of the broader Pioneer Generation Package, a national gesture of appreciation for the country’s first generation of citizens who contributed significantly to Singapore’s growth.
The monthly payment is not a loan, and recipients do not have to repay it. Instead, the money is meant to offset costs related to caregiving, mobility aids, hygiene items, and other essentials for those with disabilities.
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Who Qualifies for the PioneerDAS Grant?
To be eligible, applicants must meet two main criteria: one related to age and citizenship, and another concerning their physical health.
1. Pioneer Generation Status
A person qualifies as part of the Pioneer Generation if they:
Were born on or before 31 December 1949, and
Became a Singapore citizen before 31 December 1986
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Meeting both conditions confirms the applicant as a Pioneer under the national scheme.
2. Disability Requirements
In addition to Pioneer status, applicants must have a moderate to severe permanent disability. Specifically, they must need help with at least three of the following six daily activities:
Eating
Bathing
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Dressing
Using the toilet
Mobility (e.g., moving from bed to chair)
Walking or getting around
A qualified healthcare professional—such as a doctor, nurse, or therapist—must assess and certify the condition.
How to Apply for PioneerDAS
The application process is straightforward but must be completed accurately. A family member or caregiver may assist in submitting the application on behalf of the senior.
Step 1: Get a Medical Assessment
A Functional Assessment Report (FAR) must be completed by a medical professional. This report verifies that the individual requires help with at least three daily tasks.
If the applicant has impaired decision-making ability (for example, due to dementia), a Mental Capacity Assessment is also required.
Step 2: Submit the Application
Applications can be submitted online through the eFASS portal using SingPass. Alternatively, printed forms are available at AIC Link offices, or can be requested via email.
Step 3: Wait for Approval
Most applications are reviewed within four weeks. If approved, the first payment will be credited in the following month, and it will be backdated to the month the application was submitted.
After Approval: What to Expect
Once enrolled in PioneerDAS, the eligible senior will receive S$100 every month for life, as long as they continue to meet the program’s criteria.
Payments are typically deposited into the same bank account used for other government healthcare schemes like ElderShield or CareShield Life. On bank statements, these will appear under the reference “PGP” for Pioneer Generation Package.
Automatic Enrollment for Some Seniors
In some cases, Pioneers are enrolled in the scheme automatically, without needing to apply. This applies to individuals already receiving benefits from similar disability-related programs such as:
CareShield Life
IDAPE (Interim Disability Assistance Programme for the Elderly)
ElderFund
Home Caregiving Grant
Authorities review records and notify eligible individuals via letter. Once confirmed, payments usually begin within three months.
Need to Update Your Information?
If there’s a change—such as a new caregiver or bank account—you can easily update your details through the eFASS portal. Use the “Change Scheme Details” option.
If acting on behalf of someone without mental capacity, you must submit the mental capacity certificate again with the changes.
Want to Opt Out?
Participation is voluntary. If a senior no longer wishes to receive the grant:
Log into eFASS and select “Opt Out”
Or submit a paper request through AIC Link or email
Opting out will stop future payments, but reapplication is possible later if the person still meets the eligibility criteria.
Why PioneerDAS Matters
While S$100 a month may seem modest, it can make a meaningful difference. From covering small medical costs to easing a caregiver’s burden, this grant is designed to provide both practical support and emotional reassurance.
More importantly, the scheme honors the nation-builders of Singapore’s early years, ensuring that their golden years are met with dignity and care.
Know Someone Who Might Qualify?
If a family member or someone in your community fits the eligibility criteria, consider helping them explore this support. For more details and resources, visit the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC) website or drop by your nearest AIC Link center.