The Islands District consists of more than twenty islands of various sizes. The population of Islands District is currently around 156,800 in 2016 and 14.5% of them are aged 65 or above. In order to better understand the needs of the elderly in the District, the Asia-Pacific Institute of Ageing Studies of Lingnan University conducted a Baseline Assessment study and Ambassador Training in 2015-2016 under the Jockey Club Age-friendly City Project initiated and funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust. Adopting an academic bottom-up approach, the study has looked into the existing age-friendly measures, as well as opportunities and challenges in establishing an age-friendly community in the District. Recommended actions have been compiled into a 3-year action plan in consultation with the Islands District Council and other community stakeholders.

On the implementation of the action plan, members of the Islands District Council, who represent the residents in their District including senior citizens, can promote age-friendliness through their partnerships with government departments and the civil society (including NGOs), as well as their frequent contacts with residents of the District. Members of the Islands District Council strongly support the planning and implementation of various age-friendly initiatives to proactively drive changes and sustainable improvements within the District to support active and healthy ageing.

We believe that the creation of an age-friendly community will not only enhance the quality of life for the elderly, but also enhance their sense of belonging, sense of security and sense of worthiness. The culture of love and care for the elderly will take deeper roots across the Islands District.