P R E S S   R E L E A S E

In view of the pressing problems brought by the rapid aging of the Hong Kong population, a multidisciplinary Centre for Geronotology & Geriatric was set up at The Chinese University of Hong Kong to carry out comprehensive research into the various aspects of the ageing process, its implications, and the measures to meet the consequences.

The Centre capitalizes on the University's interdisciplinary strength with clinical and social sciences departments joining the Centre include Medicine & Therapeutics, Community & Family Medicine, Psychiatry, Orthopaedics & Traumatology, Nursing, Sociology, Social Work and Psychology.  The Centre will also develop networking with other local, Mainland Chinese, regional and international organizations to further facilitate exchange of expertise and ideas.

The Centre also promotes the concept of active ageing.  CUHK has conducted a 3-year longitudinal study on 2,032 elderly aged 70 years or above to investigate what factors are prospectively associated with successful ageing.  The study found that increasing age was a major predictor of mortality, cognitive and functional decline.  It was revealed that more female subjects than male had mental and functional decline.  Poor activities of daily living increased from 3% to 9% during the study period.  The proportion of successful ageing in men (33%) is significantly higher than that of women (18.6%).

Inactive ageing of many elderly may due to lack of exercise.  In Hong Kong, only 40% of men and women aged 60 or above exercise regularly.  Research at CUHK showed that aerobic exercise, given with calcium supplements, increased bone mineral density by 3% per year in elderly women.  Regular exercise prevents osteoporosis, hypertension, ischaemic heart disease, stoke and diabetes and also improves quality of life, mental health and physical functions, thus, significantly reduces mortality in the elderly.  A large-scale community based study is underway to evaluate the health benefits of Tai Chi.

Another concern is the psychological health of the elderly. Two major problems threatening the elderly are dementia and suicide.  The rate of dementia in Hong Kong is 4%, or 28,000, among those aged 65 or above.  However, provision of services started only three years ago.  With funding from the Hong Kong Jockey Club, CUHK will start operate a centre catering specifically for elderly with dementia and their carers in early 2000.  The elderly suicide rate in Hong Kong is also 2 to 3 times that of the UK, USA and Australia, with a relatively high female suicide rate.  Further research on the reason and prevention strategies is needed.

Taking care of the elderly causes emotional, financial and physical strains to the carers.  CUHK’s research has shown that an increasing number of family carers for older dependent relatives are elderly themselves.  A comprehensive assessment of their needs and a coordinated multidisciplinary service are essential.