Research Highlights

Supporting Informal Caregivers
- Pioneering, Validating, Implementing, and Evaluating a Chinese Caregiving Planning Model in Hong Kong

Update as of 3 August 2026



Hong Kong’s rapidly ageing population is placing increasing pressure on healthcare services, social welfare systems, and community support networks. While many older adults prefer to age in place, residential care is increasingly reserved for individuals with complex or end-of-life needs. Although home-based care supports dignity, independence, and social connectedness, it places significant physical and psychological demands on informal caregivers.

Existing research has predominantly examined caregiving roles rather than the wellbeing of caregivers themselves. Key issues, including financial strain, psychosocial needs, quality of life, and long-term care planning, remain insufficiently explored, particularly within Chinese cultural contexts. Furthermore, informal caregivers often support not only older people but also individuals with chronic illnesses and disabilities, increasing the complexity and intensity of care responsibilities.

This project adopts a mixed-methods approach in Hong Kong, integrating surveys, focus groups, and in-depth interviews, alongside a Social Return on Investment evaluation to assess effectiveness, costs, and benefits. Comparative insights from Chinese communities in Canada and Australia will also be incorporated. The study aims to develop a culturally relevant caregiving model and practical service guidelines, contributing to policy development, professional practice, and improved support for informal caregivers.

 


Team Members:

  1. PI: Prof. TSUI Ming Sum, Lo Padilla Tong School of Social Sciences, Saint Francis University
  2. Dr. WONG Fung-yee Margaret, Department of Social Work, Hong Kong Shue Yan University
  3. Prof. Lisa Pau-le LOW, S.K. Yee School of Health Sciences, Saint Francis University
  4. Dr. LEE Shu-kam, Department of Economics and Finance, Hong Kong Shue Yan University
  5. Prof. WONG Yu Cheung, Lo Padilla Tong School of Social Sciences, Saint Francis University
  6. Dr. CHU Cheong-hay, Lo Padilla Tong School of Social Sciences, Saint Francis University
  7. Dr. LAI Theresa Tze-kwan, Lo Padilla Tong School of Social Sciences, Saint Francis University
  8. Dr. LEUNG Tsan-kuen, Lo Padilla Tong School of Social Sciences, Saint Francis University
  9. Mr. TANG Chi-wing Rigo, S.K. Yee School of Health Sciences, Saint Francis University
  10. Prof. YAN Miu-chung, School of Social Work, The University of British Columbia, Canada
  11. Prof. O'LEARY Patrick, School of Human Services and Social Work, Griffith University, Australia
  12. Dr. LIANG Joe Jianqiang, School of Human Services and Social Work, Griffith University, Australia


Reference no.: ITBG200201