Inside a paper coffin: how Hongkongers can prepare for the end of life

Death literacy among Hongkongers remains low, with a 2025 study by the Hong Kong Council of Social Service finding an average score of 4.68 out of 10. This deficiency can lead to conflict, emotional debt, and undue suffering for families when facing death and end-of-life care. To address this, younger generations are increasingly seeking out death planning services.

Regina Luk, a 69-year-old Hongkonger, organized a living funeral in her paper coffin at age 65. This experience allowed her to confront her fears and feel a sense of safety and security before departing. By planning every detail of her farewell, including selecting her funeral portrait and background music, Luk aimed to ensure her wishes were honored and provide support for her family.

Several important documents can help individuals secure financial and medical autonomy and prevent family conflicts. An advance directive allows a person to refuse life-sustaining treatments, while an enduring power of attorney authorizes someone to manage financial affairs in case of mental incapacitation. The number of directives and enduring power of attorney registrations has risen significantly in recent years, likely due to factors such as the Covid-19 pandemic, migration, and changing family structures.

Pasu Ng Kwai-lun, co-founder of the social enterprise Five Blessings, notes that these documents are crucial for ensuring peace of mind and managing assets. Yet, most older adults overlook them in favor of simply making a will. He emphasizes that planning ahead for death isn't just about managing assets—it's about giving oneself peace of mind, knowing one has a plan in place.

Hongkongers now enjoy one of the longest life expectancies globally, but disability-free life expectancy is much lower. A 2023 study published in the Lancet journal highlights that Hongkongers aged 65 typically live around 16 more years without disability, during which their physical and cognitive functions may be limited, and they could be rendered mentally incapacitated, spending the rest of their life bedridden and unable to access their savings.

To prevent such outcomes, older adults must plan for death well in advance. This includes creating a will, designating an enduring power of attorney, preparing an advance directive, and even becoming a "silent teacher" through organ donation. For those lacking social networks, appointing a trust corporation to manage their financial affairs can be a viable alternative.