Letters | Why must Hong Kong elderly be taken out of service when they have so much to offer still?

Some analysts have suggested that the working lives of older people be extended through appropriate retirement, retention and recruitment policies. I am all for such policies, not only to avoid age discrimination but also to further promote active ageing. In fact, many elderly people in Hong Kong are discriminated against in the workplace: job insecurity, low status and poor pay are difficulties they have to face, which affects their health and well-being.

Many assume the elderly have less physical and intellectual ability, and many companies refuse to employ or retain old people due to their low efficiency, real or perceive. However, I think the elderly can still be valuable and productive.

Publicity and education will go a long way towards eliminating misconceptions about the elderly. Also, besides making relevant policies, the government can consider backing training sessions for elderly workers in different sectors to help them upskill and strengthen their appeal in the job market.

Cannis Chow, Lam Tin