Alternative Carer Respite: A Study on Its Effectiveness and Potential Mechanism

Launched by THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG · May 26, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial, called "Alternative Carer Respite," is looking into how effective a special support program is for older adults in Hong Kong who either have no children or have limited contact with their children. The goal is to help these older adults, and in turn, help their caregivers by reducing stress and improving their overall well-being. The study will evaluate caregivers before the program starts, right after it ends, and three months later to see how their physical health, mental health, social interactions, and satisfaction levels change.

To participate, caregivers or the older adults they care for need to be at least 60 years old and meet certain criteria, such as having no children or having very little contact with their children. Participants will be invited to join voluntarily and will be assessed on various aspects of their health and happiness throughout the study. This trial is currently recruiting participants and aims to provide valuable insights into the needs of caregivers and their loved ones in similar situations.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Either the CR or CG is aged ≥60
• • Reported having (a) no children; OR (b) no children in Hong Kong; OR (c) having children in Hong Kong but with limited contact (i.e., fewer than once per month in any forms)
• • Voluntary participation.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Unable to communicate in neither Cantonese, English nor Mandarin