A Different Perspective on Family Caregiving—from Hong Kong

As National Family Caregivers Month comes to a close, we have the unusual opportunity to take a different view of caregiving from abroad—from Hong Kong. In today’s episode, we’ll be talking with Grace Cheng, the founder and CEO of Agewhale, a social organization whose mission is to provide solutions to help caregivers of older persons identify suitable services and resources so they can age well in place. Grace has always had a deep connection with older people. She took care of her grandparents in their final years and experienced firsthand the numerous challenges faced by family caregivers. She’ll describe how caregiving practices and policies are implemented in Hong Kong, which has one of the longest lifespans and lowest birth rates, and where the economic needs of the elderly exceed those of children. Grace will talk about the challenges confronting the caregiving field in Hong Kong, and how her organization strives to help businesses ensure that their employees effectively balance work and caregiving responsibilities. “Caring for our loved ones shouldn't come at the cost of our career, personal life and health,” she says. With the right resources, guidance and community, caregiving can be a positive and meaningful experience for all of us. Our loved ones deserve to age well—and so do we.”