Ageing with Dignity
Caregiving should be a universal duty. In Hong Kong, most older people wish to age in place but often end up in poorly reputed RCHEs where they may face restrained treatment. To address the social issue of isolation among older people, I propose retrofitting existing public housing into a Living & Educational Model, emphasizing behavioural change through intergenerational contact. Part of the building will be transformed into the InterGen Care Hub, where a nursery, care home, and caregiving school will be co-located to foster intergenerational learning. Areas for comfort, play, and education will be integrated to create an ongoing learning environment that maintains or activates self-care abilities. Low-tech assisted living devices, designed to meet specific needs, will help dependent older adults perform daily activities with minimal effort. These devices are inclusive and encourage active engagement across generations, turning daily tasks into enjoyable experiences. The scheme is sustained through the Pay Through Time Policy, which includes initiatives like university students receiving government-subsidised flats in exchange for spending 30 hours per month with older people, ensuring ongoing caregiving services. By closely integrating the lives of older adults with familiar areas, the entire community, including older people, becomes caregivers.
