Asia-Pacific Regional Conference on Population Ageing 2026

Population ageing is one of the most significant social, economic and demographic transformations of our time. Across Asia and the Pacific, countries are navigating rapid changes in how people live, work, care for one another and participate in society. The choices made today will shape the wellbeing of current and future generations.

The Asia-Pacific Regional Conference on Population Ageing brings together governments, civil society, researchers, international organisations, private sector leaders and older people to explore how societies can respond to this transformation. Hosted by HelpAge International, UNFPA and the China National Committee on Ageing, the conference will take place in Hangzhou, China, from 27–30 October 2026, providing a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, share innovation and learn from experiences across Asia and the Pacific.

This year’s conference is framed around a simple but urgent question: not whether societies must adapt to population ageing, but how. Discussions will focus on four interconnected themes:

  • Silver economy
  • Technology, artificial intelligence and population ageing
  • Sustainable caring societies
  • Age-friendly societies

Through thought leadership articles, expert commentaries, interviews, videos and perspectives from across the region, this page brings together the ideas shaping the conversation ahead of the conference.

Why this conversation matters

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.

Voices from across the Asia-Pacific and beyond

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.

When an older person is told to keep quiet

Whose voices are heard when decisions are made about our societies, communities and futures? This powerful reflection examines the everyday experience of ageism and exclusion when older people are ignored, dismissed or told their views no longer matter.

Improving the lives of older people

In this video, Thiago Herick de Sá from the World Health Organization reflects on the one change he believes would most improve the lives of older people across Asia and the Pacific in the coming decade.