Hong Kong is taking bold steps to revolutionize elderly care through innovative technology, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to supporting its aging population. The government has committed HK$2 billion to the Innovation and Technology Fund for Application in Elderly and Rehabilitation Care, signaling a significant investment in improving quality of life for seniors.
At the heart of this initiative is the eRenteBuy Gerontech Online Platform, operated by the Hong Kong Council of Social Service (HKCSS). This digital marketplace serves as a comprehensive hub for local and international gerontechnology devices, carefully curated to meet stringent credibility standards. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han emphasized that these technologies must not only be innovative but also credible, reliable, suitable, and affordable to truly benefit users.
The platform goes beyond simply selling products, positioning Hong Kong as a strategic testing ground and shopping center for gerontechnology, particularly for Chinese communities worldwide. By collaborating with mainland companies, HKCSS ensures high-quality options are accessible at reasonable prices.
The recent Gerontech and Innovation Expo cum Summit (GIES) showcased the breadth of technological possibilities in elderly care. With over 270 exhibitors and nearly 1,000 products from around the globe, the event highlighted groundbreaking innovations like AI-powered social companion robots. These remarkable devices can engage in conversation and even dance, offering a potential solution to combat loneliness among older adults through technological companionship.
Bernard Charnwut Chan, HKCSS Vice President, emphasized how these efforts contribute to developing Hong Kong’s silver economy. A notable achievement in this realm is the inclusion of the General Requirements of Dysphagia Diet for Elderly (Care Food) in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) standard list—the first industry-led standard promoting coordinated elderly care development across the region.
Looking ahead, Hong Kong is set to host the International Federation on Ageing’s 18th Global Conference on Ageing in 2027. This prestigious event will focus on integrating technological and policy innovations in elderly services, with a particular emphasis on the GBA and Asia-Pacific region. It represents an opportunity to showcase Hong Kong’s innovative practices and strengthen regional and global connections.
The city’s comprehensive approach extends beyond technology, demonstrating a holistic strategy for addressing an aging population. By fostering partnerships between government, social service organizations, and private enterprises, Hong Kong is creating a robust ecosystem of support and innovation.
These initiatives reflect more than just technological advancement; they represent a compassionate response to the challenges of an aging society. The investments and innovations aim to enhance dignity, independence, and quality of life for seniors, ensuring they remain active, engaged, and supported.
As global populations continue to age, Hong Kong is positioning itself as a leader in gerontechnology. The HK$2 billion investment, cutting-edge online platform, and commitment to international collaboration showcase a model that could potentially influence elderly care practices far beyond its borders.
The future of aging is being reimagined in Hong Kong—not as a period of decline, but as an opportunity for continued growth, connection, and technological empowerment.
