Familiar ecosystem

Helene Fung Hoi-Lam, chairperson of the Department of Psychology at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, found that besides medical care and social security, a familiar environment and community is the most important factor for retirees. Macao is a relevant model for Hong Kong to consider.

Mainland cities in the Greater Bay Area will be the preferred choice for proximity and cultural affinity to Hong Kong, Fung said. Many young people have worked and lived on the mainland, she added. If Hong Kong medical and social security systems are available, they can bring their parents to live with them, if not under the same roof, then at least in the same community.

The lack of information about living on the mainland, and the available support from Hong Kong and Guangdong authorities needs to be addressed, Fung said. The advantages, limitations, and development plan needs to be spelled out for the elderly and their families to decide with confidence.