The Government Elderly Residence has been in operation for more than a year and currently accommodates over 1,500 senior residents. Many elderly people have stated that the current rental fees create a financial burden, and that the recent slowdown in the private property market — along with falling rental prices — has further reduced the attractiveness of the Residence. For this reason, it is hoped that the authorities will reassess the pricing criteria and discount policies, adjust the usage fees accordingly, and provide additional benefits, while also improving the overall quality of the services offered.
To help reduce residents’ financial pressure, the Government grants a 20% discount on apartment usage fees for elderly tenants, with a maximum discount period of six years. After applying this discount, the monthly rental fee ranges between 4,328 and 5,344 patacas. However, many elderly residents still consider these rental levels to be high and feel they remain a significant financial burden. With the recent decline in prices in the private housing and rental market, the competitiveness of the Government Elderly Residence is further affected, making it less appealing in comparison.
According to Dispatch No. 109/2024 issued by the Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, the 20% discount on usage fees has been extended to all eligible applicants who submit their application before 31 December 2025, with the maximum discount period of six years remaining unchanged. As the application deadline approaches, there is growing expectation that the authorities will reassess the fee structure and existing discount policies, make appropriate adjustments, and introduce new reductions to further ease the financial pressure on elderly residents.
Regarding service improvements, many residents have requested better ventilation in the apartments, as well as more frequent testing and enhancements to water quality. Some residents have also pointed out that, due to advanced age and reduced mobility, they struggle to clean certain hard-to-reach areas in their homes. They hope that optional household support services—such as air conditioner cleaning—can be provided to help them maintain a hygienic living environment.
In addition, several elderly residents have expressed the desire to see stronger community healthcare services tailored to seniors, the creation of dedicated transportation lines or improvements to existing bus routes, and better transport support to reach Conde S. Januário Hospital, Kiang Wu Hospital, and Macau Union Hospital. These measures would contribute to a more comprehensive improvement of living conditions and overall service quality at the Government Elderly Residence.
Macau Federation of Trade Unions
