Media

Say ‘NO’ to Loneliness
Release of survey findings on elderly sense of loneliness and associated factors

04 May 2018

As people age, they suffer from different kinds of diseases and degenerative issues and are more prone to emotional distress. International researches show that loneliness is one of the greatest mental health challenges among older adults, and is associated with social isolation, chronic diseases, and even mortality.

According to the results of 2016 Population By-census, 16% of the Hong Kong population were aged 65 and above, the number of solitary elderly significantly increased by 5% from 2006 to 2016, totalling 152,536 people; elderly couples accounted for 107,182 households.

To understand the relationship between loneliness and mental health of elderly, Tung Wah Group of Hospitals invited the research team of Dr Vivian Lou from the Sau Po Centre on Aging of the University of Hong Kong  to conduct a “Say ‘NO’ to Loneliness” survey in the fourth quarter of 2017, with objectives to explore factors relating to  elderly loneliness and propose coping strategies, in particular good practices to strengthen intergenerational support and communication for alleviating loneliness among the elderly.

A press conference will be held on May 9 (Wednesday) to release survey findings.  Ms Rita Chow from Tung Wah Group of Hospitals will at the event introduce the Best60s project, a mental well-being enhancement project established by the group in 2017. Dr. Vivian Lou will explain the background, findings and suggestions from the survey. Elderly, caregivers and volunteers are invited as guests to share their experiences and knowledge with attendees.  

Details of the press conference are as follows:
Date: May 9, 2018 (Wednesday)
Time: 3:45 PM (Media registration starts at 3:30 PM)
Venue: iBakery Gallery Café, Tamar Park, Admiralty

Rundown:
1. Introduction of “Best60s - Mental Health Healing and Education for the Elderly” Project
2. Findings on Sense of Loneliness and Associated Factors
3. Sharing Session by Elderly, Caregivers & Volunteers

For inquiries, please contact Miss Karyn Lam, Project Manager (Publicity), at 2657 7899 or karyn.lam@tungwah.org.hk.