The Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU) School of Nursing and Health Sciences hosted the International Conference on Gerontechnology (ICG) 2026 on 23 June. The conference provided a dynamic platform for academics and experts from Australia, the United States, Canada and Malaysia, as well as local healthcare professionals and representatives from the elderly care sector. Through a series of events, including keynote addresses, the SilverTech Forum and presentations, the conference explored the latest developments and practical experiences in novel gerontechnology approaches, fostering interdisciplinary and global collaboration.

Under the theme “Advancing Global Engagement in Novel Gerontechnology” (AGEING), the conference encouraged society to actively leverage technology in response to an ageing population, fostering a more innovative, independent and vibrant life for older adults. Concurrently, HKMU organised the “Gerontech Competition 2026” to motivate various sectors to utilise innovative technology to enhance the quality of life of older adults.

The opening ceremony was officiated by Dr Donald Li Kwok-tung, Chairman of the Elderly Commission of the Labour and Welfare Bureau; Ms Jenny Yan Lai-ming, Assistant Director (Elderly) of the Social Welfare Department; Revd Canon Peter Douglas Koon Ho-ming, Legislative Council Member and Chairperson of the Hong Kong Council of Social Service; Ms Grace Chan Man-yee, Legislative Council Member; Prof. Ricky Kwok Yu-kwong, HKMU Vice President (Research and Institutional Advancement); and Prof. Janet Wong Yuen-ha, Dean of the HKMU School of Nursing and Health Sciences.

In his welcoming remarks, Prof. Kwok highlighted the urgent need to address the demographic shift related to population ageing by enhancing the health and well-being of older adults and creating environments that truly empower them to reach their full potential. “At HKMU, we are firmly committed to advancing this vision,” he said. “Collaboration is essential for our continued progress. Equally important is our commitment to listening to older adults and caregivers, and to involving them as partners and co-designers throughout every stage of innovation.”

In his speech, Dr Li stated that the Government is committed to promoting the application of gerontechnology. He said, “The conference theme, 'Advancing Global Engagement in Novel Gerontechnology', encapsulates our shared vision: a future where technological innovation, forward-looking policies and societal collaboration work in tandem to improve the quality of care of older adults and improve their lives.”

Dr Li also noted that the Government supports service units in acquiring technological products through the Innovation and Technology Fund for Application in Elderly and Rehabilitation Care, while continuously strengthening support for carers. Since the launch of the 24-hour Designated Hotline for Care Support in September 2023, the service has handled approximately 160,000 calls, resulting in over 4,300 community service referrals and more than 300 emergency outreach interventions.

Ms Yan emphasised that gerontechnology is a pivotal enabler in elderly care and the Social Welfare Department has spearheaded various distinctive projects to support the elderly and caregivers for continuously enhancing service quality and expanding the scope of services. She viewed that the conference can be a catalyst for new ideas, fruitful partnerships and concrete actions for co-creating solutions of smart ageing that are not only technologically advanced but also compassionate, accessible and sustainable.

In addition, HKMU organised the “Gerontech Competition 2026” to recognise outstanding, user-centric gerontechnology applications that are practical and effective in healthcare or community settings. The review committee selected five exceptional applications based on five criteria: usability and user experience, relevance to needs, effectiveness and impact, innovation and ethics, and sustainability and staff engagement.