How new technology for elderly care can enhance safety in Hong Kong homes
British companies keen to tap into local ‘silver’ industry brought about by rapidly ageing population
A rapidly ageing population in Hong Kong has resulted in an unexplored “silver market” with business opportunities that British health care technology groups are keen to tap.
Researchers from Sensor City, a Liverpool-based technological innovation centre, were among the delegation of 15 companies and institutions in town earlier this week to explore opportunities in this emerging economy.
According to local industry insiders, the sector may be worth more than HK$50 billion.
“The ‘silver’ age group in Hong Kong is ageing faster than in the UK … we are hopeful that we will be able to collaborate with companies from Hong Kong,” Gary Disley, managing director of Essex-based Cerno Health, said.
Disley was among the Sensor City group members who met representatives from the Hospital Authority and other health care providers in the city.
One of the technologies discussed at the exchange was a system which deployed infrared sensors to anonymously track the movement of people in a room – allowing caretakers to monitor the safety of the elderly in care homes or private residences.