Caregiver Companion Project
Partnering Organization
Aberdeen Kai-fong Welfare Association Social Service (AKA) (co-funded with Fu Tak Iam Foundation)
Project Period
Jan 2016 to Dec 2018
Target Group
Elders with early dementia, frail elders, their carers and the community of Wah Fu Estate
Location
Wah Fu Estate, Hong Kong Island
How it works
Built in 1967, Wah Fu Estate is one of the oldest public housing estates in Hong Kong. With 18 residential blocks and a growing number of vulnerable elderly residents and their caregivers, there is a need for increased support for people affected by dementia and education for their community.
In this 3-year project, AKA will provide day care and community support services to frail elders and those with early dementia, enhancing their quality of life and relieving pressure on carers. The project also engages key stakeholders at Wah Fu Estate to develop a dementia-friendly community.
Using a Relationship-centred Care Approach, people with dementia are given opportunities to maintain a positive sense of self. The project engages formal service providers, family caregivers and community stakeholders for collaboration in the district to build up a supportive and caring network.
Project Component
- 120 elders with dementia will receive cognitive and functional training and day care services
- 165 frail elders will receive day care support
- 200 caregivers will receive training and respite service
- 60 volunteers will be trained as enablers
- 25 key stakeholders, e.g. residents associations, security guards, shop-keepers etc, will be connected and given dementia awareness training
- 1,600 people/neighbours in the community will be trained in dementia awareness and how to build a dementia-friendly community