Elderly Poor In Hong Kong

         Very insightful programme about the almost 1 million poor people living and working in Hong Kong. They are 'invisible' as they are everywhere going about their business  picking up cardboard boxes for a pittance. Income inequality is very high in one of the highest per capita GDP countries in the world. But that is meaningless number to all of these people. Living in cramped, squalid apartments with no proper ventilation each apartment can be as small as 60 square feet, the 'heros' eke out an existence which is heartbreaking to watch. Still they persevere with the will that tomorrow is going to be a better day.  

       The young councillor in the video is very clear in what he stands for ; he is able to separate or subjugate his personal feelings of compassion and pity for the many old folk living in his district (Sham Tsui Poh) and move on and highlight the greater needs which have to be fulfilled for the entire district. In essence, some needs are greater than others. 

        The ticking 'silver tsumani' is just around the corner, and countries all over the world are grappling with this inevitable tide of retiring or out of work senior citizens with little or no pensions available with the ominous threat of sickness, lack of mobility and purpose in life. They rightfully expect the government to help them, but the issue of pride before practicality of asking for a lifeline is making things very difficult for the social workers to determine whether their needs (not even thinking about wants, or fanciful wishes) are adequately met.

        Saving for a rainy day and old age is a must. But soured investments, business failures and family squabbles and breakups threaten the best laid plans.