New Study Finds Over 40% of Family Caregivers in Hong Kong Suffer from Mental Health Challenges

As the global population ages rapidly, the demand for home care services continues to grow. The World Health Organization estimates that approximately 1.3 billion people worldwide need assistance due to aging or disability. In Hong Kong, this situation is compounded by rising healthcare costs and cultural expectations that family members provide care, which often results in significant physical and emotional strain.

A recent research initiative by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has examined the wellbeing of local family caregivers and explored ways to better support their needs through data-driven tools. Led by Assistant Professor Prof. Richard Xu, the team surveyed 323 informal caregivers from January to March 2025. The questionnaire covered various aspects including physical health, mental health, social relationships, overall wellbeing, fatigue, and their experiences with caregiving.

Results from the survey indicate a troubling decline in caregivers’ physical and mental health. Notably, 42% of respondents reported experiencing mental health issues, with more than half showing symptoms of depression, and about 25% suffering from anxiety disorders. Furthermore, nearly one-fifth of caregivers faced mobility challenges, highlighting the physical toll of their responsibilities.

The study highlights a gap in current policies, which tend to focus on the quantity of services rather than the quality of life of caregivers. The effectiveness of respite care, for instance, is hindered by uneven availability and long waiting periods, particularly affecting those providing intensive care for over 16 hours daily. Additionally, elderly caregivers often face barriers to support services due to digital access issues. A self-service portal launched in 2023 by the Social Welfare Department is, for example, largely inaccessible to 80% of caregivers over 60.

Prof. Xu emphasized the need for policy reform, stating, "Hong Kong's current caregiver support system lacks sufficient societal recognition and comprehensive services. The government should prioritize psychological support, social network strengthening, and strategic resource allocation to improve caregivers' quality of life."

To address these issues, the research team advocates using innovative assessment tools like CarerQol, which evaluates caregivers' health, economic stress, and social support. Originally developed in the Netherlands, CarerQol has been adapted to Chinese society through careful translation and validation. The tool was tested with 324 caregivers across China and showed reliable results, effectively identifying differences based on health status, education, and urban or rural residence.

The researchers believe that integrating such tools into policy can provide policymakers with critical data for better resource distribution. Moreover, leveraging artificial intelligence and online platforms could facilitate more flexible and in-depth data collection, including sentiment analysis and virtual focus groups. These technological advances aim to enhance understanding and support for caregivers, ultimately improving their quality of life.

Prof. Xu concluded, "Advances in technology enable richer research methods and real-time monitoring of caregivers' wellbeing. By focusing on both qualitative and quantitative data, we can develop more effective, personalized support strategies."