This is a story about love, resilience, and the way two women found hope amid Hong Kong’s rising tide of eldercare needs.
In Hong Kong’s rapidly ageing society, tens of thousands have taken on the demanding role of caring for their elderly loved ones. This journey often spans over a decade, representing profound dedication and major challenges.
For Yu Ha, caring for her mother with mobility issues tested her resilience. Despite visible strain and friends urging her to consider a residential care home for the elderly, Yu Ha could not bear the thought. "I couldn’t stand the heartache of leaving my mother alone in a strange place," she explained. Even through occasional arguments with her husband, Yu Ha remained steadfast in her commitment.
Similarly, Ms Chow has shared a flat in a dilapidated walk-up building with her elderly mother for years. Respecting her mother’s wish to avoid care facilities, Ms Chow took on the responsibility herself, often feeling overwhelmed but refusing to seek help to avoid "troubling others".
These stories reflect a common experience among Hong Kong’s carers: deep commitment coupled with isolation and a sense of helplessness. Many lack awareness of available resources or struggle to navigate complex support systems.
Recognising these challenges, we have been working to empower carers with knowledge and community connections. A case in point is The Jockey Club Carer Space Project, which has set up 10 Jockey Club Carer Space centres across Hong Kong, offering vital services like counselling, caregiving journey planning, peer support, and respite care. These spaces equip carers with crucial caregiving knowledge and serve as a hub to connect them with community resources and help them build support networks.
(Bottom) As Hong Kong’s population ages, carers play an important role in supporting elders "ageing in place", allowing them to live safely in their own home and community as they age. However, carers often encounter various challenges throughout their caregiving journey.
For Yu Ha, discovering the Carer Space transformed her caregiving experience. "I found a peaceful place in the community where both my mother and I can feel at ease," she shared. Through the project, she has gained not just practical assistance but the confidence and connections to make informed decisions about her mother’s care.
The Jockey Club Stand-by U Project complements these efforts by training over 400 substitute carers who understand the journey firsthand. Beyond providing temporary assistance, the project helps carers develop individual care plans and connects them with appropriate community support.
Ms Chow, who initially refused help even after her cancer diagnosis, eventually found strength through the Stand-by U Project. After years of relentless caregiving with no personal time, the project offered her regular support, allowing her to attend medical appointments, and even reconnect with her long-missed friends.
For both women, the transformation has been more profound than just securing periodic respite. By acquiring knowledge about available resources and building community connections, they have overcome the isolation that often accompanies caregiving. Their stories highlight how empowerment—not just relief—creates sustainable support for carers. These complementary projects honour carers’ dedication while acknowledging their needs. By providing knowledge, building networks, and offering practical support, these projects empower carers to make informed decisions and plan their caregiving journeys with confidence.
As Hong Kong’s demand for eldercare increases, these initiatives foster greater public awareness of carers’ challenges and promote a more inclusive community. For many carers like Yu Ha and Ms Chow, the message is clear: their devotion is recognised, their struggles are understood, and with the right knowledge and support, they can navigate the caregiving journey with confidence.
Did you know?
To help our seniors age with dignity, we are making Hong Kong a carer-friendly city, enhancing family well-being, and promoting community collaboration across sectors. Through The Jockey Club Carer Space
Project, in partnership with six NGOs, offers caregiving journey planning, respite support and other services.
This initiative, alongside the Sau Po Centre on Ageing at The University of Hong Kong, conducts vital research into carers’ needs. A self-assessment tool has been developed to help carers understand their needs and seek timely assistance, facilitating early intervention.
