On 26 September 2024, the EOC held a press conference to release How to Support Persons with Dementia at Work – A Practical Guide for Employers (the “Guide”). The toolkit aims to enhance understanding of dementia among employers and provide practical advice for supporting employees with dementia, as well as those who care for individuals with the condition.

The Guide challenges the common misconception that individuals diagnosed with dementia should stop working. In reality, maintaining a work routine can help these individuals stay socially connected and lead a more structured and purposeful life, which contributes positively to their well-being. Moreover, dementia is a progressive condition, and with appropriate accommodations, employees can continue to thrive in their roles.

EOC Chairperson Ms Linda LAM Mei-sau said, “Many people believe that the symptoms of dementia are limited to memory loss or that it is an affliction exclusive to the elderly. With September being ‘World Alzheimer’s Month’, the EOC has released this Guide, not only for enhancing public awareness of dementia and employees with dementia, but also for deepening employers’ understanding of the needs and rights of persons with dementia, such that they can provide more appropriate support to employees and avoid discrimination, thereby fostering a respectful and inclusive work environment.”

While dementia is often associated with the elderly, it can also affect younger individuals with a condition known as young-onset dementia (YOD), which occurs before the age of 65. Currently, over 13 000 people in Hong Kong are living with YOD.

At the press conference, Dr Henry SHIE Wai-hung, EOC Member and Honorary Treasurer of the Hong Kong Alzheimer’s Disease Association, said, “Many of these YOD patients were still working when diagnosed. With many people deferring their retirement, the number of elderly employees has been on the rise. This will likely bring the figure of employees with dementia to continue to increase. How to support them to continue their work will become a challenge for both the employers and those employees with dementia.”

The Guide also offers suggestions for helping employees who care for persons with dementia balance their responsibilities at home and at work. Recommended practices include implementing flexible work arrangements, providing family or unpaid leave for employees to accompany family members to medical appointments, and offering resources to assist employees in managing stress and building resilience.

• Read the press release
• Read the Guide