Hong Kong is transitioning into a super-aged society. As the first university of applied sciences in the city, HKMU has been actively developing programmes in nursing, smart ageing and gerontology, with the latter identified as one of our strategic research focuses. In late 2024, the University hosted its first Gerontech Competition to promote the application of innovative technological solutions in elderly care services, receiving enthusiastic support from the sector.
HKMU President
Prof. Paul Lam Kwan-sing
” A total of 21 organisations joined the competition. We are pleased to see participants actively sharing their practical experiences in applying gerontechnology solutions and products, which will help advance the field and enhance the quality of life for older adults in Hong Kong. “
In collaboration with the Association of Hong Kong Nursing Staff and Tung Wah College, the University also hosted the third International Conference on Gerontechnology, gathering about 350 scholars and experts from Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, mainland China and Hong Kong for a three-day academic exchange from 11 to 13 December 2024. Supported by the Innovation and Technology Commission and the Wu Jieh Yee Charitable Foundation, the conference was inaugurated by officiating guests including Mr Chua Hoi-wai, Chief Executive of The Hong Kong Council of Social Service (third from right); Prof. Paul Lam Kwan-sing, HKMU President (third from left); Mr Tse Kin-keung, Chairman of the Association of Hong Kong Nursing Staff (far right); and Prof. David Man Wai-kwong, Vice President (Academic) of Tung Wah College (far left).
Champion
Hong Kong Lutheran Social Service, LC-HKS Mrs Leung Kwai Yee Lutheran Home for the Elderly
Smart management system and app: This system tracks the health and care needs of older adults, assisting nursing staff in providing comprehensive care in residential homes.
Interactive motion training and rehabilitation system: Simulating familiar environments, this technology encourages older adults in care homes to engage in physical fitness and rehabilitation, enhancing their interest in exercise.
Interactive cognitive training system: Featuring thematic games, this system allows nursing staff to create personalised cognitive training programs to boost memory and cognitive abilities of older adults.
First runner-up
Comfort Home for the Elderly
Smart visitor management system: Family members can register their visits, enabling staff to monitor resident interactions and identify those lacking visits for appropriate follow-up.
AI robot: This robot offers entertainment, music and video calls, alleviating boredom and keeping older adults connected with family.
Interactive smart mirror: This device provides rehabilitation exercises with on-screen demonstrations tailored to the specific needs of older adults.
Second runner-up
Hong Kong Christian Service Chin Wah Day Care Centre for the Elderly
Wall projector for multi-sensory therapy: This system projects interactive games onto walls, helping older adults enhance upper limb mobility while playing.
Mobile interactive floor: Projecting games onto the floor, this system promotes lower limb responsiveness and flexibility through engaging activities.
Interactive training system: A training ball linked to a tablet allows older adults to control the movement of the ball through hand actions, improving their cognition and physical coordination
