Celia Ling, Chief Marketing Officer, Manulife Hong Kong and Macau (left), and Jeanie Ho, Head of Hong Kong and Macau Retirement, Manulife (right), present key findings from the Manulife Asia Care Survey 2025, highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to health and wealth in achieving life goals.
Money News PH | Hong Kong, July 17, 2025 — A new survey from Manulife Hong Kong reveals a major shift in how Hongkongers perceive longevity. According to the Manulife Asia Care Survey 2025, the majority of respondents now define a healthy life not by how long they live—but by how well they live. Independence, purpose, and peace of mind are emerging as the top priorities, with many preferring a fulfilling life to age 75 over living to 80 without quality.
What’s New?
The survey, conducted between January and February 2025 among 1,000 adults in Hong Kong aged 25 and above, found that 77% define good health as “living independently and doing what’s important.” Instead of fearing aging, more Hongkongers are embracing it as a meaningful life phase that requires thoughtful planning across physical, mental, and financial well-being.
Key aspirations include:
- 47% want to maintain physical and mental well-being to age gracefully
- 41% seek full financial independence
- 33% aim to preserve their preferred lifestyle
“It’s encouraging to see a shift in mindset—from simply adding years to life, to adding life to years,” said Celia Ling, Chief Marketing Officer of Manulife Hong Kong and Macau. “At Manulife, we’re committed to supporting that journey through holistic solutions that combine protection, financial planning, and lifestyle flexibility.”
A New Definition of Resilience: Body, Bank, and Balance
The report highlights three key pillars to achieving a life well-lived: physical health, financial preparedness, and mental well-being—all grounded in strong family relationships.
Despite expecting age-related health issues around 67, many reported experiencing them as early as age 39. Anticipated healthcare costs include:
- 43% expect higher spending on medication
- 37% foresee costs tied to major illnesses or surgeries
- 35% anticipate mobility support needs
To adapt, 91% are willing to adjust their lifestyle, from reducing utility bills to choosing more affordable meals or even seeking cross-border healthcare options. Mental health also plays a critical role, with:
- 83% valuing family relationships as essential to emotional well-being
- 77% linking mental health directly to longevity
These findings emphasize the importance of early planning and broad-based protection. 61% believe having insurance improves their chances of sustaining good health into older age.
Income Stability vs. Diversification: A Retirement Reality Check
When it comes to retirement, steady income streams rank high on the priority list. Yet, most Hongkongers still favor cash savings—a potentially risky habit in today’s inflationary environment.
Survey findings show:
- 43% rely on pension providers for stable retirement income
- 36% prioritize long-term investment growth
- 32% seek inflation protection
- Yet, cash still makes up 45% of liquid assets—rising to 53% among those aged 25–34
“While cash offers comfort, it may not be enough for a long, high-quality retirement,” said Jeanie Ho, Head of Hong Kong and Macau Retirement at Manulife. “We’re innovating within the MPF system to better support long-term wealth building through education, AI-driven tools, and the widest range of fund options in the market.”
The Missing Link: Financial Guidance
The survey also points to a major gap in financial planning support. Among those working with a professional planner, 62% feel confident about their retirement readiness—compared to only 29% among those without one. Yet only 30% actively prioritize investment diversification, exposing many to unnecessary risks.
As Hongkongers rethink their future, professional financial advice is emerging as a game-changer, helping individuals align lifestyle aspirations with sustainable financial strategies.
Meet the Experts
Celia Ling, Chief Marketing Officer, and Jeanie Ho, Head of Retirement, led the presentation of the survey findings—emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to aging that blends purpose, planning, and protection.
About the Manulife Asia Care Survey
The Asia Care Survey 2025 captured insights from over 9,000 adults aged 25+ across nine markets: Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR, Taiwan, Japan, Singapore, Vietnam, Indonesia, Philippines, and Malaysia.
About Manulife Hong Kong
A trusted name for over 125 years, Manulife Hong Kong serves more than 2.6 million customers across Hong Kong and Macau. It provides a comprehensive suite of protection and wealth solutions, backed by a commitment to making decisions easier and lives better.
Source: PR Newswire
