TNAG-0876-FCO40-1086-Development-of-social-welfare-policy-in-Hong-Kong-1979 — Page 229

CONFIDENTIAL **

These are traditional religious institutions providing board,

lodging and burial service for old people in return for a lump sum

payment. The Government does not intend to interfere with religious

practices but is anxious to ascertain what role is played by

"chai-tong" in the care of the elderly, and whether any improvements

could and should be made.

Institutional Care

4.25

With improved social security benefits and the planned

expansion in health services and community support services for the

elderly, the demand for institutional care should be reduced although

existing facilities are far from adequate. In general, institutional

facilities will be restricted to those elderly persons who can no

longer function independently in the community.

4.26

Priority will be given to the expansion of care and

attention homes providing personal and nursing care to told people

in need of such services. 1400 additional places are planned for by

1982/83. These will provide proper care for the infirm and relieve

existing pressure on hospital beds which can be put to better use.

In view of the identified shortfall, the considerable planning

efforts involved in these custom-built facilities and the long lead

time in construction, the Government believes that it should play

a more active role in the provision of these facilities, so that

the long term target provision of 4 places for every 1000 population

aged 60 and over may be achieved as soon as possible. It is now

examining the best means of achieving this aim. Direct Government

participation in this sphere will enable a better integration of

care and attention facilities with the medical and health services,

and will allow the Government to acquire experience in operating an

essential service.

CONFIDENTIAL

機密