Joy in Pain: Hope and Support for Caregivers

As Hong Kong’s population ages, many caregivers face the challenge of caring for elderly family members while struggling with their own pain. “Joy in Pain: A Multidisciplinary Mind-Body Support Project for Caregivers,” is supported by the Chest through a donation from The Hongkong Bank Foundation, and operated by The Free Methodist Church of Hong Kong. This innovative project aims to help caregivers learn how to manage their pain and to regain their physical and mental well-being. 

This program integrates Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) with exercise to help caregivers experiencing pain in embracing their current situation. Through regular exercise and positive thinking, they can improve their quality of life. Physiotherapists also provide personalised guidance based on each caregiver’s needs.

Caring for elderly family member requires significant effort and energy, often leading caregivers to neglect their own needs. This program provides mental and physical support, including emotional relief, caregiving skills training, and group activities to build a support network. This holistic approach will help to enhance caregivers’ physical, mental, social, and spiritual well-being.

Mr Chan, a physiotherapist involved in the program, shared that “Caregivers often endure pressure and pain in silence. Through this program, caregivers can feel they are not alone and that there are people willing to walk this journey with them. ‘Walking with Pain’ is not about giving up or compromising; it is an act of courage. When pain becomes a part of life, we learn to live with it instead of letting it control our lives.”

The Community Chest is committed to enhancing elderly support services. Through funding the “Joy in Pain: A Multidisciplinary Mind-Body Support Project for Caregivers,” we help caregivers bothered by pain to regain control of their lives, and improve their overall quality of life.