Types of public housing for the elderly
9.
In providing accommodation for the elderly, we take into account their preferences and their state of health. Some elderly people want to live alone while others prefer communal living so that they can support one another physically, socially and emotionally. In order to cater for different needs, both self-contained and shared accommodation is provided.
Self-contained flats, which range in size from 10 to 25 SQM, are allocated to elderly singletons who wish to live alone. For those who are disabled, the flats are also provided with handrails and ramps for wheelchairs.
Shared flats are provided in response to demand from single elderly people. There are partitioned flats with shared facilities. In recent years, specially designed flats are provided. Each tenant has a bedroom and shares a common living area, bathroom and kitchen with up to three other elderly tenants. A 24-hour warden service is provided, and wardens also help to promote mutual care and social contact.
I should point out here that the concept of shared accommodation is a deliberate policy to provide companionship and mutual help, which can enrich the daily lives of elderly people for whom loneliness may become a serious psychological burden. I am glad that the Honourable Peggy Lam generally support this concept. It is true that some older people find it difficult to adjust to communal living and relationships may break down. The Housing Department staff will try to mediate and advise as far as possible. If professional help is required, staff will seek assistance from social workers based in nearby family services centres. If it then becomes clear that they can no longer share accommodation with others, separate accommodation will be arranged.
Like some Honourable Members, I was sorry to learn about the recent incident in Tai Po. I agree with the Honourable Y F Hui that it is one of the rare cases and all the more tragic since the problem had been identified and alternative accommodation had been arranged. In the past 10 years, the number of similar incidents known to us is very few. Such incidents do not invalidate the social benefits of the shared accommodation concept for the elderly. I say this because according to a survey conducted a few months ago, a very high proportion of respondents living in shared flats said that they were satisfied with the accommodation and facilities provided.
Catering for future demand
As part of our continuing commitment to improve the quality of life for elderly people, the size and quality of new flats will be further upgraded as from 1997 to provide larger bedrooms, more bathrooms and kitchens, to reduce sharing, and more spacious living and common areas. I am that that our cause of action is in line with the Honourable Allen Lee's suggestion.