Core Viewpoint - The trend of elderly Hong Kong residents relocating to Guangdong for retirement is driven by the high cost-effectiveness and lifestyle compatibility of the region's elderly care services compared to Hong Kong [1][2]. Group 1: Economic Factors - Nearly 100,000 elderly individuals aged 65 and above from Hong Kong have chosen to settle in Guangdong by 2024, with cities like Guangzhou, Foshan, and Zhongshan being popular choices [1]. - The monthly fee for mid-range nursing homes in Hong Kong exceeds 30,000 HKD, while similar facilities in Guangdong cost only one-third of that, offering better living conditions and amenities [1]. - The Hong Kong government's "Guangdong Care Home Service Plan" covers food, accommodation, nursing, and basic medical expenses for elderly residents, alleviating financial concerns [2]. Group 2: Policy Support - The "Guangdong Plan" provides a maximum monthly subsidy of 4,060 HKD for elderly residents, and the elderly medical voucher can be used at designated institutions in Guangdong, creating a comprehensive support system [2]. - The integration of policies has transformed "Northward Retirement" from an individual choice into a stable option backed by institutional support, allowing elderly individuals to try living in Guangdong without financial worries [2]. Group 3: Healthcare and Service Challenges - There are significant issues with the integration of healthcare services, particularly the limited annual quota of 2,000 HKD for the elderly medical voucher, which is insufficient for chronic disease management [2][3]. - The lack of medical information sharing between Hong Kong and Guangdong complicates the continuity of care, as elderly patients may need to travel back to Hong Kong for treatment, adding to their physical burden [2]. - The proportion of caregivers in Guangdong nursing homes who are fluent in Cantonese and familiar with Hong Kong's elderly care practices is less than 30%, which may affect the quality of care for bedridden elderly individuals [3]. Group 4: Recommendations for Improvement - To address these challenges, it is essential to promote deeper integration of elderly care services in the Greater Bay Area, including increasing the quota and scope of the elderly medical voucher and establishing a cross-regional medical information sharing platform [3]. - Joint training programs for caregivers could enhance their Cantonese communication skills and service professionalism, combining Hong Kong's established care standards with local practices [3]. - Tailoring services to meet specific needs, such as offering "Hong Kong-style meals" and Cantonese cultural activities, has shown promise and should be expanded [3].
【世相百态】香港老人北上养老 大湾区一体化再进阶
Zheng Quan Shi Bao·2025-10-16 19:02