Track 4.3: “The Silver Tsunami”: Can we pave the path for positive ageing?

Experts from the research, government, and innovation sectors discussed how societies can better support the growing elderly population. Moderated by Josephine Lee, the speakers argued for reframing aging in a positive light and highlighted the importance of integrated services, the role of technology, and the need to ensure older adults maintain dignity, purpose, and social connection as they age.

Peng Du discussed how the concept of aging has evolved in China over the past three decades, as well as how seniors’ needs and characteristics differ across cohorts. He emphasised that positive aging cannot be achieved by older adults living in isolation but requires coordinated social support across government sectors. Over 60% of China’s elderly are digitally engaged and Du encouraged society to harness this by allowing older adults to actively help shape societal advancements.

Shusmita Rashid stressed the importance of involving older adults in the design of services and technology. She shared an example of a platform that connects older adults with younger generations for intergenerational learning, thus addressing social isolation and reducing the risk of dementia. Rashid’s approach involves treating older adults as partners in innovation, ensuring that the solutions created resonate with their actual needs and desires.

Hock Lin Sng introduced the concept of the " silver dividend," which he suggested as a positive alternative to "silver tsunami." Sng argued for early investments in healthy aging to allow societies to benefit from a longer and more active lifespan. He shared Singapore’s efforts to close the gap between lifespan and health span through campaigns and volunteerism.

Chris Sun discussed the potential of leveraging big data and technology to better support vulnerable elderly populations. He also critiqued the term "silver tsunami," suggesting "silver wave" as a less catastrophic and more manageable metaphor. Sun highlighted the need for integrated data systems across healthcare, social welfare and other sectors to proactively identify and support elderly individuals before a crisis occurs.

The panel concluded by emphasising the necessity of cross-sector collaboration to meet the challenges of an aging society. The integration of technology, data, and human-centred approaches will be essential in enabling older adults to age with dignity and remain active contributors to their communities.