The world is experiencing a rapid demographic transition towards an ageing population. In particular, North-East Asia is home to around one third of all older persons aged 65 and above in the world. While rising life expectancy is one of humanity’s major achievements, population ageing presents unprecedented economic and social challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic further changes the socio-economic life of older persons, poses a high risk to their health and well-being, and impedes their ability to stay active and socially connected. To better support older persons, business as usual will not work and innovative solutions are required.

Based on the experiences of the technology leaders in North-East Asia, this report showcases good practices on utilizing technology to support older persons and effective policy interventions in promoting the development of technology for ageing societies in China, Japan and the Republic of Korea. The findings and recommendations enable countries to customize the use of technology for active ageing, formulate forward-looking policies, as well as strengthen regional cooperation. The report provides timely contributions to the fourth review and appraisal of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing (MIPAA) as the national and regional processes start in 2021 and 2022 respectively, thereby accelerating the implementation of the MIPA with the help of technology.

The report was developed by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, in partnership with China National Committee on Ageing, China Research Center on Ageing, Japan Center for International Exchange, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Our Hong Kong Foundation and United Nations Population Fund China.