The Social Welfare Bureau (IAS) held a press conference yesterday about its ongoing census called “Survey and Registration of Isolated Elderly and Families of Two”, which is collecting data from 34,000 senior residents.
The one-hour press conference was held at the Social Service Centre in Bairro da Ilha Verde Building in Ilha Verde district.
IAS President Wilson Hon Wai said in a speech during the press conference that the census aims to gradually establish databases of seniors living alone or in households comprising two elderly citizens across the city by collecting information on their living conditions, laying the groundwork for public safety and emergency preparedness.
The definition of seniors living alone or in households comprising two elderly citizens excludes the possible presence of a domestic helper in the respective residential unit.
Hon said the data will also serve as a basis for planning future elderly services. The census commenced yesterday and is scheduled for completion next March, Hon said.
According to an IAS statement released during the press conference, in order to facilitate the smooth implementation of the census, the bureau has completed the verification and collation of address information comprising over 110,000 senior citizens receiving elderly benefits.
The statement pointed out that the information was gathered by cross-referencing data both manually and through computer systems, in accordance with the complete address specifications set by the Mapping and Land Registry Bureau (DSCC). A basic database has been set up using the verified addresses to support the subsequent census operations, the statement said.
The census, the statement said, involves the coordinated participation of 73 social service entities to assist seniors living alone or in households comprising two seniors in completing two forms, one of them being the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Integrated Care for Older People (ICOPE) form. It aims to collect basic personal information and health status data from seniors.
The statement underlined that the Social Affairs Bureau has established a collaborative mechanism with the Health Bureau (SSM). Based on the assessment results from the screening questionnaire, follow-up health care services will be provided to seniors, based on their identified health needs, the statement said.
According to the statement, during the census, interviewers will wear uniforms provided by their respective facilities or entities and carry IAS-issued identification cards. These cards display the interviewer’s name, photograph, ID number, and the name of their affiliated social service facility. They will also bear the Social Welfare Bureau’s official seal, logo, and a QR code for dual verification of the interviewer’s identity, the statement said.
Respondents with enquiries may call the IAS census Hotline at 8399 7723 or 8399 7891.
Social Welfare Bureau (IAS) President Wilson Hon Wai (second from left) and other IAS officials look on during yesterday’s press conference in Ilha Verde district. – Photo: Armindo Neves
