Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) remains a major public health condition in Hong Kong, affecting over 100,000 individuals, with prevalence expected to double by 2039 as the population ages. Early detection is crucial, yet many underprivileged older adults face barriers such as high costs, limited access to diagnostic tools, and persistent stigma. These challenges often lead to delayed diagnoses, missed opportunities for intervention, and increased pressure on families and public services.

Recognising the urgency of addressing these inequities, The D. H. Chen Foundation believes that accessible diagnosis and community support are essential for assisting vulnerable groups disproportionately impacted by AD. In 2025, the Foundation, together with the Lee Hysan Foundation and the Ng Teng Fong Charitable Foundation, co-funded the NeuroCare Community Project led by the State Key Laboratory of Nervous System Disorders at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) to tackle this issue through a cross-sector collaboration model connecting research institutions and elderly-serving organisations – a strategic alignment with the Foundation’s commitment to innovation and collaborative solutions.

This five-year initiative provides free, community-based early AD screening for underprivileged older adults, utilising a cutting-edge blood test for the early detection of AD and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) developed by HKUST and the Hong Kong Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases. The test achieves remarkable accuracy rates of over 96% for AD and 87% for MCI.

By developing and optimising an affordable screening platform, the programme makes early, accessible, and ongoing monitoring possible through free blood tests and clinical assessments, ensuring that financial constraints never exclude participants recruited through community centre networks, in partnership with Tung Wah College.

Screenings are delivered directly within the community, maximising accessibility and enabling timely referrals that connect participants and caregivers with suitable community resources, including health classes and support services. The Foundation has also taken the initiative to enrich the platform by connecting support services and programmes for older adults and caregivers, alongside our partners.

By fostering a holistic system that integrates screening, diagnosis, intervention, and care, the Foundation envisions a scalable model that strengthens community wellbeing and supports Hong Kong’s ageing population with dignity and compassion.