Healthcare and Social Needs of Older Adults in Underserved Urban Communities

Insights from Community Health Workers

Bibliographic Data

ID12472012
AuthorsArkers Kwan Ching Wong (0000-0001-6708-3099, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, corresponding author), Tianyi Liu (0000-0002-2624-7146, Hong Kong Polytechnic University), L Liu (0000-0001-6283-5220, Hong Kong Polytechnic University), Luna Ziqi Liu, Jonathan Bayuo (0000-0001-8437-2730, Hong Kong Polytechnic University), Xingjuan Tao (0000-0002-7954-1760, Shanghai Jiao Tong University), Frances Kam Yuet Wong (0000-0002-9844-451X, Hong Kong Polytechnic University)
Year2025
Volume102
Issue5
Pages1057-1068
Publication date2025-09-27
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal of Urban Health (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1099-3460 • E-ISSN: 1468-2869
PublisherSpringer Science+Business Media (PUBLISHER • DE)
DOI10.1007/s11524-025-01011-9
PMID41015613
OpenAlexW4414565950
LanguageEN
Citations received2
References cited32

As populations age globally, ensuring equitable healthcare access and social support for older adults in underserved urban areas has become increasingly critical. Elderly residents in low-income districts face challenges, including poor living conditions, social isolation, and healthcare access barriers. Community health workers (CHWs) are vital in bridging these gaps, yet their effectiveness is often Limited by resources and training. This qualitative study explores the healthcare and social needs of elderly residents receiving community services, identifies gaps in support systems, and examines the challenges faced by CHWs in delivering care in an underserved urban district. The study took place in Sham Shui Po, a district in Hong Kong with a high concentration of economically disadvantaged elderly residents. Data were collected through 17 semi-structured interviews with older residents and non-governmental organization (NGO) staff, alongside three focus group discussions with CHWs, and were analyzed using thematic analysis. The results showed that senior residents faced poor living conditions, chronic illnesses, and mobility issues, exacerbated by financial constraints and limited healthcare access. Long wait times, transportation challenges, and language barriers hindered medical service use. Many struggled with digital healthcare tools, limiting their ability to manage health independently. CHWs provided vital support but encountered physical strain, inadequate training, and logistical difficulties, highlighting the need for structured training and better resources. Addressing elderly care challenges requires integrated healthcare models, expanded financial and digital literacy programs, and enhanced CHW training and support. Strengthening these areas can improve health outcomes and well-being for aging populations in low-income urban settings

Disadvantaged · Focus group · Health care · Health equity · Health literacy · Needs assessment · Qualitative research · Social support · Thematic analysis · Geriatric Care and Nursing Homes · Health disparities and outcomes · Intergenerational Family Dynamics and Caregiving