Turnover rate at Hong Kong's two housing estates for the elderly lower than expected

The turnover rate at the city's two housing estates catering to the needs of the elderly is much lower than expected, as the latest figures from the Housing Society show that tenants live to a ripe old age.

The turnover rate is averaging 3.5 per cent this year - much lower than the original estimate of 8 per cent and a surprise given that over half of the residents are aged 80 or over. Twelve years ago, that age group made up only 17 per cent of tenants.

But satisfying demand for such homes will become a daunting task. While the government has stopped giving land to the Housing Society to build elderly-friendly homes to focus on providing more affordable housing for the general public, private developers are also reluctant to offer tailor-made flats for the "silver generation".

"Don't forget, [elderly-friendly residences] are competing with other demands too. If properties for first-time, young-couple buyers can sell for more money, developers will choose to build those types of flats instead," said Professor Chau Kwong-wing, chair professor of real estate and construction at the University of Hong Kong.

More than 700 applicants are on the waiting list for Housing Society senior citizen residences in Jolly Place in Tseung Kwan O, which is fully occupied, and Cheerful Court in Jordan Valley.

A society spokesman said over 65 per cent and 17 per cent of residents in the two estates were aged above 70 and 80 respectively in 2003, when the estates first opened. This year, the figures reached 92 per cent and 54 per cent. The oldest current resident is 99 years old.

These flats are specially designed for elderly people, with features like emergency buttons, non-slip tiles and handrails. There are exercise facilities, and home-care and therapy services can also be arranged.