29 July 2025
Earlier this week, I got the news that my second son has found his own apartment and is ready to leave the nest. In less than a year, two of my sons will have flown the coop, leaving just one at home. It’s a bittersweet moment that makes me feel older than I’d like, while my wife and I start thinking about how we’ll navigate life as future “empty nesters”.
As we process this new phase, a press release caught my attention: “New Perspective on Longevity—Prioritising Living Well on Their Own Terms Over Simply Living Longer.” It really struck a chord. For years, Manulife’s annual Asia Care Survey has explored how people in Hong Kong view longevity, and the findings from the latest edition are worth diving into. Like many others, I don’t just want to live longer—I want to live well. With my sons leaving home, my wife and I finally have the chance to reclaim our lives and focus on making the most of them. But how do we ensure we’re set up to live the lives we want? Thankfully, the Manulife Asia Care Survey offers some valuable insights.
What does “health” mean to you? For most people, it’s a balance of physical, mental, and financial wellbeing. But here’s the thing—it’s not just about living as long as possible. It’s about living well. According to the survey, 77% of people in Hong Kong define health as “living independently and doing what’s important” rather than just staying illness-free. Quality of life always beats quantity.
So, what helps people achieve longevity? The survey found three top priorities:
- 47% focus on physical and mental health to age gracefully.
- 41% aim for financial independence and freedom.
- 33% prioritise maintaining or creating a lifestyle they love.
The key takeaway? 70% of people believe that financial health forms the foundation for everything else—and they’re right. Financial freedom helps reduce stress, provides time to enjoy life, and creates the flexibility to handle challenges. Yet, it’s often the last thing we focus on. Why? Because managing finances can feel overwhelming, like trying to solve a puzzle without a guide.
Why Financial Health Matters More Than Ever
Many people assume they can rely solely on savings to get by, but this approach is risky in the long run. The Manulife Asia Care Survey reveals that 45% of liquid assets (excluding property) are held in cash. For those aged 25–34, the figure jumps to 53%. While cash feels secure, it offers little room for growth. When it comes to retirement, 55% of people still rely on cash, with 31% depending on pension schemes. The reality? Cash alone won’t sustain the lifestyle most of us want in the future.
My protégé, “Miss MPF”, often compares investing to going to the gym: intimidating at first, but worth it over time. And she’s spot on. Just like physical and mental health, building financial health requires effort—but you don’t have to do it alone.
The Power of Starting Early
The earlier you start investing, the better. You don’t need to throw your life savings into the stock market overnight. Start small and let it grow. I like to think of financial health like a good workout: have a plan, and if you’re unsure, work with a professional—a financial version of a personal trainer.
If you’re in your 20s or early 30s, take advantage of time by exploring higher-risk, high-growth investments. As you move into your 40s and 50s, a mix of high-growth and conservative options balances short- and long-term goals. By your 60s, focus on stable, long-term investments to maintain steady growth.
MPF (Mandatory Provident Fund) is a great place to start. Contributions are mandatory, so why not use them to develop smarter investment habits? It’s like dipping your toes into the investing world without diving all in. Over time, you can explore other platforms, diversify your investments, and grow your retirement savings with a mix of global funds and asset categories.
Diversification and Expert Guidance Go a Long Way
Diversification is essential—think of it as not putting all your eggs in one basket. Spreading your investments across multiple funds reduces risk and creates more opportunities for growth. Interestingly, 62% of people who work with financial planners feel confident about retirement, yet only 30% actively diversify their investments. This highlights a big, missed opportunity.
Seeking professional advice can make all the difference. Just as you’d see a doctor for your physical health or a therapist for mental wellbeing, financial advisors help you achieve your financial goals. Whether it’s saving for a big purchase, planning for retirement, or building a safety net, their guidance is invaluable.
The Bottom Line
Financial health is just as important as staying physically active or practicing mental wellness. Start small, stay consistent, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. Your future self will thank you. It’s not about having millions in the bank—it’s about having the freedom to live your life on your terms. Start today, and you’ll be one step closer to making those “someday” dreams a reality.
For me, I’m getting closer to that “someday,” and it feels great knowing I started preparing early. Thanks to the support of mental, physical, and financial professionals, I live, play, and invest according to my “fitness age,” not my actual age—and for that, I’m forever grateful.
Source: Manulife Asia Care Survey 2025
This article was written by MPF Ratings, Hong Kong’s independent provider of MPF research, views, and education. The information in this blog is general in nature and does not consider your personal situation. You should assess whether the information meets your needs and, where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser.
