“Love·No·Limit” Dementia Friendly Program

Hong Kong, along with other developed economies, is facing the worrying issue of a rapidly aging population, with the percentage of citizens in Hong Kong aged over 65 expected to reach 25% in 2028 and 35% in 2069 . With this demographic shift, dementia is becoming increasingly prevalent, with estimates suggesting it affects 5%-8%  of people aged over 65, and 20%-30% of those aged over 80. However, early detection and comprehensive cognitive assessments can make a profound difference to the lives of those suffering with dementia, which is why ensuring that these individuals receive the necessary support is a top priority.

Purpose

Hang Lung Properties is committed to promoting sustainable development and improving the wellbeing of the public through ongoing community investment projects. One of our focus areas is the elderly community, who have made significant contributions to society’s development. In response to the increasing number of elderly dementia patients in Hong Kong, Hang Lung partnered with Hong Kong Young Women's Christian Association (HKYWCA) to launch the “Love·No·Limit” Dementia Friendly Program in 2021. This program aims to raise awareness about dementia through various initiatives, providing support to individuals and families impacted by the condition, and promoting the importance of early assessment and intervention.

Social Impact of the Love·No·Limit Program over Three Years

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people from families with dementia and community members joined the Community Inclusion Day
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dementia patients and carers reached
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hours of volunteer service
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hours of volunteer and staff training
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frontline staff from 19 projects in Hong Kong have trained as ”Dementia Friends”
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elderly people benefitted from free brain health consultations and cognitive testing

Strategy

With these purpose-led goals in mind, we devised a strategic plan that prioritizes cross-sector collaboration. This involves working closely with the government sector, non-profit organizations, tenants, and business partners to tackle the challenges related to dementia that are facing the Hong Kong community. We joined forces with HKYWCA to launch the three-year scheme, and since then, we have organized large-scale events, including free cognitive assessments, training workshops and other initiatives that aim to assist dementia patients and their carers, while also fostering cross-generational ties as part of our efforts to cultivate an inclusive and dementia-friendly community in Hong Kong. 

Fostering Positive Relationships for Patients and Carers

Fostering Positive Relationships for Patients and Carers

Artistic creation can effectively help dementia patients release their emotions and express themselves, whilst also stimulating their senses and awareness. Therefore, we arranged a series of art workshops that allowed people with dementia to express themselves creatively and share their talents with their carers to deepen and enhance their close relationships.  

The wellbeing of caregivers is incredibly important, so we offered relaxing activities to help them unwind and de-stress. The program also provided subsidies for disadvantaged elderly individuals who are in the initial stages of dementia and directed them to suitable medical care provided by private doctors within their districts to alleviate their financial concerns. 

Outreach Programs with Corporate Volunteers

Outreach Programs with Corporate Volunteers


Volunteers were a core part of the initiative as they offered their valuable time to establish meaningful connections with families coping with dementia. By engaging in activities and conversations with carers, the Hang Lung As One volunteers helped to lift their burdens, provided them with time to relax and expanded their social networks. The Program delivered training sessions for volunteers participating in social services and they took part in outreach programs, supported art workshops, and five senses outing activities, and facilitated cognitive trainings. HKYWCA also invited younger volunteers from the youth centers to participate in the program, representing the vision of an inclusive, dementia-friendly society, which is possible when people from all walks of life work together. 

“Dementia Friends” Training for Frontline Staff

“Dementia Friends” Training for Frontline Staff

At Hang Lung, we are committed to creating a more inclusive, caring, and dementia-friendly community. That’s why we started dementia-friendly training for our frontline staff in 2021 and now, close to 300 of our frontliners in malls and office towers have completed the Social Welfare Department- recognized “Dementia Friends” training course, giving them the skills to provide appropriate assistance to people with dementia. It is vital to not only increase awareness of dementia but also encourage dementia-friendliness and this calls for cooperation between all members of the community to understand, connect, care for, and support the elderly, caregivers, and people in need.

Community Inclusion Day at Hang Lung Malls

Community Inclusion Day at Hang Lung Malls

With the purpose of raising public awareness of dementia as well as deepening our support for those suffering with dementia, we organized Community Inclusion Day at our Hong Kong malls. To showcase the creative talents of elderly patients with dementia and demonstrate their abilities, we featured exhibitions of artwork cocreated by dementia patients, carers, young people and Hang Lung As One volunteers. To increase understanding of dementia and the various symptoms related to it, free cognitive assessments and referral services were available during the events. Our tenants also participated by offering seniors exclusive shopping concessions to encourage them to stay active and engage in the community.

Hang Lung will continue to demonstrate our support for dementia patients and their carers, with the aim of building a more inclusive, caring, and dementia-friendly community, thus fulfilling the Company’s commitment to improve social wellbeing.

Helen Lau

Deputy Director (Head of Hong Kong Business Operation)