Redefining Wellness: Reflections from the 15th Ageing Asia Innovation Forum

I had the privilege of attending the 15th Ageing Asia Innovation Forum (AAIF) in Singapore on 8th and 9th May 2024, a momentous event that brought together thought leaders, innovators, and experts from around the globe to delve into the future of eldercare and wellness. This milestone edition, integrated with the 12th Asia Pacific Eldercare Innovation Awards and the Ageing Asia Innovation Exhibition, showcased groundbreaking advancements that underscored a critical shift in how we approach aging and wellness.

Throughout my career and on the personal front,  I've been deeply interested in the study of longevity and wellness, continuously seeking to explore emerging trends and breakthroughs in the field. From early interests in longevity research and supplements to recent discoveries leveraging stem cell technologies, my journey has been one of constant discovery and evolution.

At AAIF 2024, it was inspiring to witness how digitalization has revolutionized healthcare, making treatments more personalized and impactful. Real-time data tracking allows for a deeper understanding of treatment outcomes, facilitating better care and improving quality of life for all, and not only for seniors. The convergence of technology and healthcare is reshaping aging as we know it, opening up new possibilities for healthy living and proactive wellness management.

The event highlighted the importance of holistic wellness, emphasizing that it is not merely for the well, but a fundamental aspect of living well and aging well. Wellness is about empowering individuals to take charge of their health, engaging communities, and activating collective efforts to redefine care for our aging population.

The theme of AAIF 2024, "Redefining Care: Activating Communities of The Future," resonated deeply with me. It encapsulates the urgent need to transform how we care for our seniors, shifting from traditional models to community-driven approaches that foster independence, dignity, and inclusion. The World Ageing Festival, spanning from was a testament to this commitment, fostering global knowledge exchange and collaborations to accelerate innovative projects and initiatives.

As I reflect on my experience at AAIF 2024, I am energized by the collective momentum to redefine aging and wellness. The event has reinforced my belief in the power of innovation and collaboration to shape a future where aging is not feared but embraced as an opportunity for growth, resilience, and vitality.

I look forward to continuing this journey, staying abreast of emerging trends, and contributing to the evolution of eldercare and wellness. Together, let us activate communities of the future and build a world where every individual can age with grace and purpose.

Suzanne Ng, Senior Lecturer, Republic Polytechnic