CS Daily：Survey: 70% of Elders with Emigrant Children Suffer Social Isolation and Depression

 

In recent years, Hong Kong society has experienced various separations and departures. Elders face life changes and mixed emotions when their children emigrate to other countries. We conducted the 'Survey on Service Needs of Elders with Emigrant Children in Hong Kong' from November 2022 to February 2023. Through a questionnaire survey of 203 elders, HKCS found that nearly 40% of elders had children who had emigrated in or after 2020, of whom more than 60% were their primary caregivers. The survey also found that elders with emigrant children experienced poorer social life and emotional health than those without emigrant children. Nearly 80% of elders with emigrant children are at high risk of social isolation, and 70% are prone to depression.

We recommend supporting families who plan to emigrate, developing a neighbourhood support network, and using information technology to support elders. HKCS launched the 'Community Helper - Support for Elders with Emigrant Children' and created the '5 Self-Care Tips for Elders with Emigrant Children', guiding them to address their children's emigration.

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