According to a study, approximately 10% of the elderly population in Hong Kong experiences depressive symptoms. Factors such as stress, health issues, and a lack of social engagement contribute to the vulnerability of older individuals and increase the risk of elderly depression and other major illnesses.

In response to this concern, The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust approved over HK$366 million to initiate the "JC JoyAge: Jockey Club Holistic Support Project for Elderly Mental Wellness"(JC JoyAge) in 2016. The project aims to tackle the problem of elderly depression, enhance the capacity of professional and non-professional manpower, and raise public awareness of elderly mental health. The JoyAge project was initially piloted in four districts: Kwai Chung, Kwun Tong, Sham Shui Po, and Tseung Kwan O, from 2016 to 2019, yielding fruitful results. 

As of 31/12/2019, JC JoyAge approached and screened over 90,000 elderly who aged 60 years old or above. 4,000 elderly entered the services and 3,198 of the elderly were founded at risk to depression; 1,117 of them were suffered from mild or above level of depressive mood. Over 97% of the elderly found mood improvement after joining the project.

With the positive outcomes of JC JoyAge, the project has expanded to all 18 districts in Hong Kong since 2020. Collaborating partners include the University of Hong Kong and 17 local non-governmental organizations operating elderly and mental health services. The project is now in phase III (2024-2026), it aims to develop a sustainable service model across Hong Kong, providing comprehensive support for elderly individuals affected by depressive symptoms.

Contact Information

Address 9/F, Kai Nang Integrated Rehabilitation Services Complex, 4 Fuk Tong Road, Kwun Tong, Kowloon

Email: jcjoyage@mhahk.org.hk

Telephone: 2346 3798