The 23rd IAGG World Congress of Gerontology and Geriatrics concluded successfully at the RAI Amsterdam, The Netherlands, from July 5 to 8, 2026.
Prof. Elaine KWONG Yee-lan (Associate Director of RISA, and Associate Professor in the Department of Language Science and Technology) co-chaired a high-profile symposium titled "Getting Old before Getting Rich: Challenges and Solutions." in the congress. The session addressed how assistive technology can support economically disadvantaged older adults, particularly in developing regions.
During the symposium, Prof. Angela LEUNG (Associate Director of RISA, and Associate Head (Research) and Professor of the School of Nursing) delivered a key presentation on "Getting More Value Than Cost," advocating for stakeholder-inclusive technology design.
Dr. Eric TAM (Director of Jockey Club Rehabilitation Engineering Clinic and Deputy Director of Jockey Club Smart Ageing Hub) delivered an impactful oral presentation: "Lending Program to Support the Integration of Gerontechnology in Elderly Care Services." His research highlighted how structured lending and rental frameworks can lower financial barriers, enabling community care providers and families to seamlessly adopt smart technologies.
The IAGG 2026 congress provided a vital global platform for RISA to advocate for socially equitable technology. PolyU RISA remains dedicated to translating scientific research into accessible health innovations, ensuring "ageing well" is achievable for older adults worldwide, regardless of socioeconomic status.
