Hong Kong urged to better monitor, support carers after elderly woman’s death

The arrest of a domestic helper over the suspected murder of an elderly woman in Hong Kong has prompted calls to include carers who look after isolated seniors in a government database to strengthen support and monitoring.

While stressing that physical abuse was unacceptable, social welfare observers and a migrant workers’ group said domestic helpers often shouldered most of the caregiving burden and needed adequate rest and support, especially as the government promoted “ageing in place” amid a rapidly ageing population.

An employer group and an employment agency representative also suggested installing surveillance cameras, regularly reviewing footage and seeking third-party help to mediate disputes as ways to deter and prevent potential abuse.

Their comments came on Tuesday, a day after police arrested a 52-year-old helper on suspicion of murdering a 93-year-old woman surnamed Kwan, whom she allegedly assaulted hours before her death on Sunday.