Hongkongers aim for self-sufficiency in old age, but survey finds ‘clear readiness gap’

While nine out of 10 Hongkongers aim to remain as self-sufficient as possible in their old age, they also expect 14 years of care dependency and 17 years of financial dependence, among the highest totals in Asia, according to survey results released on Monday.

Based on the responses of 1,000 Hongkongers aged 18 and above, the Manulife Asia Care Survey 2026 found clear gaps between awareness and action in both preventive healthcare and financial self-reliance.

Respondents said they expected to spend an annual average of about HK$94,000 (US$12,000) on unexpected healthcare needs but only 57 per cent felt prepared to cover that cost.

Eighty-three per cent said regular health check-ups were vital but only 42 per cent had one each year and 19 per cent had never had one. Thirty-eight per cent said they only sought out screening when they suspected symptoms of a serious condition, with the perceived cost of early screening among the reasons for such delays.

At the same time, while 90 per cent said financial independence and self-sufficiency were priorities, only 52 per cent were using investments to fund their retirement and care needs.

Manulife said the results pointed to “a clear readiness gap, as many remain underprepared in key areas such as preventive health, retirement planning and caregiving resilience”.