Lingnan Study Exposes Severe Pressure on Hong Kong 'Multiple Caregivers' Balancing Work and Family
Bastillepost · 4 SOURCES1 day ago6 MIN
Summary
Lingnan University's Asia-Pacific Ageing Studies Research Centre has published a groundbreaking study on the challenges faced by Hong Kong's "multiple caregivers" – working individuals who care for at least two family members, with at least one having a disability or chronic illness. The research, conducted through in-depth interviews with 45 caregivers between April 2025 and January 2026, uncovered severe psychological, financial, and career impacts on this often-overlooked group. Nearly half of working respondents chose to conceal their caregiver identity from employers, with some even turning down promotions or avoiding job changes altogether. The study, funded by the Research Grants Council, is calling for urgent policy interventions to support this vulnerable population amid Hong Kong's rapidly ageing society.
Key Points
- The Hong Kong Social Welfare Council estimates Hong Kong has 1.12 million caregivers, many of whom are working adults simultaneously caring for parents, spouses, or children
- Among the 45 interviewees (aged 25 to 75+), 34 cared for two family members, nine for three, and two for four to five members, collectively caring for 104 recipients
- The 104 care recipients included 30 with chronic diseases, 20 with dementia, and 20 with mobility issues from stroke or long-term bed rest
- Nearly 45% of respondents were in paid employment, requiring them to use annual leave or shift swaps for medical appointments, while worrying about being perceived as uncommitted to their jobs
- About half of working interviewees hid their caregiver status, preferring to endure pressure rather than be labelled "troublesome employees"
Why It Matters
With Hong Kong's population ageing rapidly, the number of multiple caregivers is expected to grow substantially. The current monthly caregiver allowance of HK$3,300 represents only 15% of median income – far insufficient to cover the multiple expenses associated with intensive care . Professor Chan Chak-kwan (陳澤群), Director of the research centre, stressed that multiple caregivers face far heavier pressures in time allocation, role responsibilities, and psychological and financial aspects than single-person caregivers, yet receive disproportionately limited support .
With Hong Kong's population ageing rapidly, the number of multiple caregivers is expected to grow substantially. The current monthly caregiver allowance of HK$3,300 represents only 15% of median income – far insufficient to cover the multiple expenses associated with intensive care . Professor Chan Chak-kwan (陳澤群), Director of the research centre, stressed that multiple caregivers face far heavier pressures in time allocation, role responsibilities, and psychological and financial aspects than single-person caregivers, yet receive disproportionately limited support .