We are pleased to present this issue of Innovation Digest, themed "Smart Ageing: Driving Prosperity in Life Through Tech and Care." This issue examines an increasingly important area of research and policy: how ageing societies can be supported through innovation, evidence-based practice and cross-sector collaboration.

Ageing is not only a demographic phenomenon but also a global challenge with significant implications for economic development, healthcare systems and quality of life. As populations age, the need for effective and sustainable responses becomes ever more urgent. In Hong Kong, the matter is particularly salient. By 2046, people aged 65 or above are projected to account for 36% of the population, underscoring the importance of developing strategies that promote healthy, independent and dignified ageing.

As reflected in the 2025 Policy Address of the HKSAR Chief Executive, in which smart ageing and gerontechnology are identified as strategic priorities, the HKSAR Government continues to advance initiatives that foster age-friendly living, healthcare innovation and enhanced support for older adults. 

This issue of Innovation Digest is organised around two main focuses. The "Emerging Tech" section highlights recent technological developments that support older adults’ physical health, including:

• A study investigating fat distribution as an indicator of brain ageing
• The top-ranked large language model system at INTERSPEECH 2024 for cognitive impairment diagnosis
• An AI-based contact tracing system for residential care homes trialled during the COVID-19 outbreak
• A breakthrough approach to the treatment of Parkinson’s disease using hollow silica nanostructures in ultrasound brain stimulation

The "Supportive Care" section explores new tools and equipment for physical care, while also examining the mental health and well-being of caregivers:

• Immersive VR for fall prevention among older adults
• An electronic painting platform for caregivers of people with dementia 
• An investigation into older adults’ perspectives on smart healthcare technologies
• A nature-based mindfulness programme to help relieve stress in caregivers 

In the meantime, in "Engagement and Partnership" we continue to exhibit our recent collaborations with external organisations, while in "Student Corner" we proudly spotlight the achievements of our present and past students.

We hope this issue contributes meaningfully to the ongoing dialogue on ageing research and practice, and offers useful perspectives on building a more responsive and inclusive society.

Prof. Cheng DONG Chairman of the Editorial Committee Associate Vice President (Mainland Research Advancement) Chair Professor of Cell Engineering and ImmunoMedicine, Department of Biomedical Engineering