Heavy pressure on Hong Kong’s compound carers

  • Research

Issue No. 198 Oct 2026

Some employed people in the Hong Kong SAR are forced to juggle the demands of work alongside caring for parents, spouses, or children, taking on the arduous role of compound carers. The Asia-Pacific Institute of Ageing Studies at Lingnan University conducted in-depth interviews with over 40 compound carers who care for at least two family members, one of whom has a disability or a chronic illness. The study found that these working compound carers face heavy pressure in balancing professional and family duties. Nearly half of those interviewed keep their caregiving responsibilities hidden at work for fear of being branded “troublesome employees”. Respondents note that current support networks remain fragmented, leaving compound carers to search for, evaluate, and arrange various services entirely on their own — adding substantial friction to an already overwhelming load. The research team recommends introducing dedicated Case Managers who will integrate healthcare, rehabilitation, and social welfare services.

 

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