This study into the physical and mental
health of elderly Chinese living in older urban districts of Hong Kong
was done to ascertain their need for social services. Health status and
its links to support from family and friends, daily habits, source of
income, and usage of social services were determined. Methods. Elderly people aged 60 years or above, living in two older urban districts of
Hong Kong (Sham Shui Po and Hung Hom), were interviewed using
abbreviated versions of the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15) and
the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). Results. A total of 468
elderly people were interviewed and 397 sets of questionnaires were
completed and analysed. Compared with their counterparts living in
other areas, elderly Chinese living in older urban districts of Hong Kong
were at higher risk of suffering from poor mental health due to their
relatively deprived social conditions. Depression among the respondents correlated significantly with their social conditions, including their
cohabitants, type of housing, financial status, and family support.
Conclusion. More resources are needed to provide support, such as
the setting up of more outreaching ‘support teams for the elderly people’
for those living in older urban districts. More research should also be
done to study the needs of and problems faced by the urban elderly so
that social workers can be well-informed and culturally competent to
help this disadvantaged group.

Mode of access: Internet.