Hong Kong Must Protect Dignity of Its Elderly

Addressing the Crisis of Isolation Among the Elderly

The recent discovery of the remains of an elderly resident in a public housing flat has once again brought attention to the growing issue of isolation among the aging population. This tragic event, which occurred in Kwai Tsing district, is not an isolated incident. It highlights a deeper systemic problem that requires urgent and comprehensive action.

As the primary provider of housing for the elderly, the government holds a critical role in addressing this crisis. The current social safety network is insufficient to support the increasing number of elderly individuals living alone or with an elderly spouse. Without proper support systems in place, such incidents are likely to become more frequent unless effective measures are implemented.

Several initiatives have been introduced to tackle this issue, but they remain fragmented and lack coordination. A centralized approach is necessary to ensure that all efforts are aligned and impactful. Public housing can serve as a platform for implementing these solutions and setting a benchmark for residential developments across the country.

In August, the skeletal remains of a 77-year-old woman were found in her home, marking the second such case in three months in Kwai Tsing. In May, an 83-year-old man's remains were discovered in a nearby flat. These incidents underscore the need for a more proactive strategy to prevent similar tragedies.

One potential solution is the creation of a database for isolated elderly residents. Experts suggest that leveraging technology can significantly improve monitoring of at-risk older adults. District-level community care teams often lack crucial information about where these individuals live, making it difficult to provide timely assistance. Implementing a centralized database could streamline these efforts and enhance efficiency.

Recently, the Social Welfare Department launched a pilot scheme in Kwun Tong and Sha Tin districts. This initiative aims to identify older residents living alone or with their spouse only, as well as carers looking after elderly and disabled individuals in public housing estates. Additionally, the Housing Authority introduced a pilot project involving door sensors in two public housing estates. These sensors monitor door activity and alert family members if no movement is detected within a set time frame. While these measures are promising, they represent just the beginning of a broader effort.

Beyond these pilot schemes, the government should consider establishing a register of elderly people who live alone or with an elderly spouse without support. The absence of such data hinders the ability of authorities and social agencies to address the problem effectively. A comprehensive register would enable better resource allocation and targeted interventions.

The upcoming policy address by Chief Executive John Lee Ka-Chiu presents an opportunity to review and expand elderly care services. Effective enforcement of elderly policies is essential, and the expanded district community care teams may play a more proactive role. However, given manpower constraints, the integration of technology to monitor the well-being of at-risk elderly and their carers appears to be the most viable long-term solution.

In conclusion, the issue of isolation among the elderly demands immediate and sustained attention. By leveraging technology, improving data collection, and fostering collaboration between various stakeholders, the government can create a more supportive environment for the aging population. Only through such concerted efforts can we hope to prevent future tragedies and ensure the well-being of our elderly citizens.