Hong Kong need not nudge its elderly across the border

The recent announcement of government subsidies for elderly Hong Kong retirees in mainland care homes signals a few things. First, we have an ageing population that we are struggling to take care of here in Hong Kong. Second, Hong Kong is fine with sending the elderly to care facilities on the mainland. Lastly, we are throwing money at the symptoms of the problem instead of tackling the root cause.

Between shrinking birth rates and immigration trends, it comes as no surprise that the proportion of the elderly in Hong Kong’s population is increasing. By 2046, the Census and Statistics Department predicts that the number of people aged 65 and over will increase to 2.74 million, or 36 per cent of the population, nearly double the elderly population of 1.45 million in 2021. Hong Kong is apparently faced with two choices: shore up its elderly care institutions or send the problem across the border.

However, there are alternatives, such as focusing on ageing in place, enabling elderly Hongkongers who are still healthy to live out their lives in their own homes. The Hong Kong government has advocated this approach, with activities to keep older adults stimulated both physically and mentally. It is common to see senior citizens out hiking, in public parks exercising or using sports facilities at off-peak times.

However, this won’t work for everyone. Past the age of 75, many begin to experience physical decline and getting out can be a struggle. Cognitive abilities can also decline with age. While the government does not keep track of the total number of people with dementia, according to the Hospital Authority, the prevalence rates of dementia in Hong Kong are estimated to be 5-8 per cent among people over 65, and 20-30 per cent among people over 80.

In mainland China, there is a law that emphasises children’s responsibility towards their parents. The “Elderly Rights Law” mandates that adult children regularly visit their ageing parents.

While it would be challenging to apply such a law in Hong Kong, with many emigrants leaving aged parents behind, encouraging filial care is a good approach.

  

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