Time is running out to find solutions to housing problems faced by Hong Kong’s rapidly ageing population

While there has been plenty of discussion on Hong Kong’s rapidly ageing population, a solution to housing the elderly has yet to be identified so that a coherent policy can be implemented. Figures indicate that by 2034, almost one-third of the population will be aged 65 or older, which will create huge demand to build quality housing for that group of people. At present, there is a lack of quality housing for the elderly. According to the Social Welfare Department, there are about 73,000 bed spaces for the elderly, including government-subsidised (37 per cent) and non-subsidised bed spaces (63 per cent). Most of the existing homes for the elderly are geared towards nursing and specialist-care facilities, However, the housing needs of those who could look after themselves have been overlooked. For this group of elderly people, homes equipped with supportive facilities and services are needed. Although the Housing Authority provides two types of housing for the elderly in public rental estates, he says the supply is insufficient and that demand for better-quality homes has yet to be addressed.