Age-friendly societies benefit people of all ages. Drawing on examples from across the region, Quyen Ngoc Tran explores how neighbourhoods, services, public spaces and climate responses can be designed to support participation, independence and dignity throughout life.
The Silver Economy is often discussed in terms of spending power and market opportunity. Philip O'Keefe argues for a broader vision, one that recognises older people as workers, entrepreneurs, caregivers, volunteers and contributors to society.
Population ageing is experienced differently across countries, communities and generations. Experts, HelpAge network members, policymakers and practitioners are sharing their perspectives on the changes needed to improve the lives of older people across the region.
This section brings together blogs, opinion pieces, videos, interviews and personal reflections from contributors across Asia and the Pacific and beyond, highlighting diverse experiences, innovative solutions and ideas for the future.
Population ageing affects every aspect of society, from health and care systems to employment, cities and economic growth. The experts contributing to the conference bring decades of research and experience to these discussions, offering fresh perspectives on what societies need to do differently as populations age.
In this article, Philip O’Keefe calls for a broader understanding of the silver economy, one that recognises older people as workers, entrepreneurs, caregivers, volunteers and contributors to society.
In this article, Professor Gietel-Basten explores how we think about the silver economy and the opportunities created by longer lives.
In this video, Thiago explains how age-friendly cities and communities can improve the lives of older people.
In this article, Dr Henning reflects on why stronger cooperation and solidarity are needed across generations, communities, institutions and countries.
In this article, Dr Odgerel Chinbat from Mongolia highlights the importance of connecting health and social protection systems.
In this article, Professor Sri Moertiningsih Adioetomo from Indonesia examines how societies can build stronger long-term care systems.
Professor Stuart Gietel-BastenIf I could prioritise one change to improve the lives of older people in Asia and the Pacific over the next decade, it would be creating societies where people can remain healthy, economically active, socially connected and engaged throughout later life.
Across the HelpAge global network, organisations and advocates are working directly with older people and communities experiencing population ageing in different ways.
Their stories remind us that ageing is about people's daily lives, whether that means accessing healthcare, remaining economically secure, staying connected to their communities or overcoming discrimination.
In this article, Vijay Naraidoo reflects on how ageism continues to shape opportunities and experiences for older people.
In this video, Titus Abworo highlights the importance of income security in the lives of older people.
Shreeram KC shares why making every local government genuinely age–friendly matters.
Dr Mukamakuza shares her hopes of seeing older people recognised as active contributors.
Dr Chauhan reflects on the importance of including older people from the rural areas and calls for intergenerational solidarity.
Mamta Sharma speaks about the importance of water security and accessible healthcare for older people.
George Ouma talks about the importance of stronger investments in age-inclusive policies.
Oranuch Lerdkulladilok reflects on the key learnings from the 2024 Asia-Pacific Regional Conference on Population Ageing and shares her expectations for this year’s conference.
Sanju Thapa Magar reflects on how a multi-stakeholder approach can make a difference in policy-making for an ageing world.
Emily reflects on the impact of income security and productivity in older age.
Dr Arak Wongwarachart shares his experience of establishing a community-based “School for the Elderly” to promote healthy ageing in Thailand.
HelpAge network member, the Tsao Foundation, spoke to older Singaporeans about their perspectives on ageing.
Ahead of the conference, we also asked HelpAge Board members a simple question: What is the one change that would most improve the lives of older people?
Their answers reflect different realities but also shared aspirations for how we want to age.
Peter Kaldes eflects on how money can have the greatest impact on older people around the world.
In this video, Martine reflects on what inclusion and dignity mean for older people in Lebanon.
In this video, Cecilia Mbaka shares her hopes for a society where age is never a barrier to dignity, opportunity and participation.
By 2050, one in four people in Asia and the Pacific will be over the age of 60. Population ageing is already reshaping labour markets, health and care systems, communities, public finances and economic development across the region. Yet ageing is not simply a challenge to manage. It is also an opportunity to create more inclusive, resilient and equitable societies.
The Asia-Pacific Regional Conference on Population Ageing provides a space to learn from one another, challenge assumptions and build practical solutions for a future where people of all ages can thrive.
Eduardo Klien reflects on how the conversation has evolved from viewing ageing as a burden towards understanding it as a broader transformation affecting every aspect of society.
What does it take to create societies that are prepared for longer lives? Rhea Tariq explores the questions policymakers and practitioners cannot afford to ignore.
Why were the conference themes chosen? What does a "whole-of-society" response to population ageing really mean? Eduardo Klien explains the thinking behind this year's programme.
