The distinguished guests at the Healthy Ageing Conference 2023 presided over the inaugural ceremony, symbolising the collective commitment of conference participants to promote healthy ageing in the Western Pacific region in alignment with the United Nations' Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021–2030).Zoom In

Preparing for population ageing is a priority in the Western Pacific region since it has one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing elderly populations. Led by the World Health Organisation (WHO), an action plan on healthy ageing has been developed for the region, providing specific and clear objectives to collectively achieve the vision set out in the United Nations (UN) Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030). In line with these efforts, the Healthy Ageing Conference 2023 was held on 26-27 October, serving as a crucial platform to address the challenges and explore innovative solutions for healthy ageing in the region.

 

The Conference was organised by the WHO Collaborating Centre for Community Health Services, School of Nursing of PolyU, and co-organised by the Department of Health of the Government of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), PolyU Research Institute Smart Ageing and PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences.

 

Prof. Jin-Guang Teng, PolyU President, emphasised the pivotal role of the Conference in realising the UN’s vision of healthy ageing and addressing the multifaceted factors influencing the well-being of older individuals and their families.

 

Other esteemed speakers also delivered addresses at the Conference opening ceremony, including Mr Zhang Hui, Counsellor (DG level) from the Department of Ageing and Health, National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China; Prof. Chung-mau Lo, Secretary of Health, Health Bureau of the HKSAR Government; Dr Ronald Lam, Director of Health from the Department of Health of the HKSAR Government; and Dr Hiromasa Okayasu, Director of the Division of Healthy Environments and Populations at the WHO Western Pacific Regional Office.

 

The Conference featured a comprehensive programme encompassing a wide range of topics including healthcare innovations, social engagement, policy development and technological advancements. Participants engaged in thought-provoking discussions, interactive workshops and other networking opportunities, fostering collaborations and inspiring initiatives to address the multifaceted aspects of healthy ageing.