The latest findings from the Manulife Asia Care Survey have revealed a significant confidence gap among people in Hong Kong regarding attaining their desired levels of financial, mental, and physical well-being over the next decade.
This confidence gap is further amplified by the strong link between financial stress, emotional wellness, and physical health, underscoring the need for a holistic approach to all three aspects of well-being.
In the Manulife survey, conducted between January and February 2024 with over 1,000 adults aged 25-60 in Hong Kong, respondents were asked about their confidence in achieving their desired financial, mental, and physical well-being in ten years.
They aimed for scores of 85 for financial and mental well-being, and 86 for physical well-being, on a scale of 1 to 100.
However, their expectations fell short, estimating to reach only 70 for financial, 71 for mental, and 71 for physical well-being. This shortfall of 15, 14, and 15 points, respectively, indicate the potential challenges individuals may face in achieving their future well-being goals.
Difficult choices in balancing financial stability and physical health amid rising healthcare costs
In addition, when asked about challenges impacting their ability to achieve desired financial well-being, 69% of respondents cited rising health costs.
This concern is magnified by a perceived 18% surge in healthcare expenses over the past year, particularly in areas like outpatient services (22%), drugs (15%), and preventive healthcare (14%).
These numbers highlight the significant financial burden that healthcare costs can inflict on individuals, thereby negatively impacting their financial well-being.
To counter the impact of escalating healthcare costs, the survey found that respondents in Hong Kong are resorting to various measures, including watching their diet more carefully (41%), using less expensive healthcare services (25%), delaying or skipping body checks (19%), and choosing medical insurance plans with lower premiums and fewer benefits (18%).
These actions highlight the measures people are taking to address the financial strain and the difficult choices they may face when trying to balance financial stability with their physical health.
Mental well-being conditions such as stress and anxiety could impact physical well-being
Furthermore, the survey highlighted the impact of mental health on physical well-being, with stress (34%) and anxiety (28%) cited as top potential illnesses affecting future mental health. The known correlation between stress, anxiety, and various physical ailments highlights the interdependence of mental and physical health.
Meanwhile, concerns about severe illnesses like cancer and heart disease represent the main obstacles to achieving desired physical well-being levels.
“Given the escalating healthcare costs and resulting financial stress, combined with the prevalence of mental health concerns, it is important for people in Hong Kong to reconsider their approach to holistic well-being,” said Patrick Graham, chief executive officer, Manulife Hong Kong and Macau.
“As a steadfast advocate of the ‘mind-body wealth’ concept, which stresses the importance of achieving balance in financial, mental, and physical aspects of well-being for a healthier and more fulfilling life, we are dedicated to improving the overall well-being of Hong Kong people across these aspects,” he added.
37% of HK parents no longer expect children’s financial support in old age, and 70% intend to delay retirement
The Asia Care Survey further revealed a shift in financial expectations regarding future generations.
The traditional expectation for children to serve as future income sources seems to be fading, as about 37% of Hong Kong adult respondents with children, or planning to have children, do not anticipate their children to financially support them in old age.
With this shift in expectations, 70% of those married with children are looking to delay their retirement age. This change is likely to impact their expectations regarding retirement planning products and services.
“Proactive financial planning is a potent tool for addressing the evolving needs of various life stages. We encourage Hongkongers not to limit themselves to saving for the future but to adopt an informed, forward-thinking financial planning approach.,” added Graham.
“By consulting with a financial planner, they can uncover comprehensive solutions tailored to their long-term aspirations. This not only empowers them but also puts them in command of their journey towards a secure financial future,” he concluded.
