The AWE Silver Economy Forum concluded successfully in Hong Kong, and a core consensus emerged from the discussions: in response to the global shift towards longer lifespans, we must move beyond conventional perceptions of “ageing” and achieve a worldwide mindset transformation—from “care receiving” to “flourishing.”
Mr. Chavalit Frederick Tsao, Chairman of the AWE, emphasised that ageing should not be viewed as a societal burden, but as a profound opportunity for life evolution. We are not merely addressing demographic change—we are reimagining a way of life centred on well-being, turning “waiting” into “creating.”
Dr. Bernard Chan, JP, Under Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, highlighted in his remarks the importance of the silver economy to Hong Kong’s industries and social collaboration. He noted that policy and innovation, when combined, can create more enriching life scenarios for older adults.
Mr. CHUI Hoi-wai, JP, former Chief Executive of The Hong Kong Council of Social Service, emphasised the importance of intergenerational inclusion and the revitalisation of seniors’ potential from the perspective of social services and community support.
The Forum emphasised that the silver economy serves as a crucial pillar of the well‑being economy, opening substantial growth opportunities for Hong Kong’s small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs):
– Meaning‑driven service design: Move beyond basic functionality by seamlessly integrating elder‑friendly features into everyday offerings, making “dignity” a core element of products and services.
– Value re‑evaluation and intergenerational collaboration: Recognise seniors as “holders of wisdom” and, through new business models, enable their transition from care recipients to contributors of social capital.
This represents not only an upgrade in business models but a cultural shift in how we perceive the meaning of life. As a platform dedicated to advancing this transition, the Association for Well‑being Economy (AWE) will continue to connect government, business, and academia. We look forward to jointly guiding a new paradigm for the silver economy—one centred unequivocally on well‑being—and moving from dialogue into meaningful action.
