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WHO and Hong Kong's Institute of Philanthropy launch a US$7 million push to help older people stay active and independent
In brief
On October 22, 2026, the World Health Organization's Western Pacific office and Hong Kong's Institute of Philanthropy announced a new four-year healthy ageing initiative with The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK). Backed by about US$7 million from the Institute and The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, it aims to help older people keep their abilities and live well in their communities.
Two parts, one goal
In Hong Kong, CUHK will work with WHO to develop and test a multi-component healthy ageing package, supported by the Charities Trust. A second, regional part, supported by the Institute, will turn that experience into adaptable guidance and tools, help interested countries adapt them, and strengthen shared learning and evidence across the region. Work starts in 2027 and is part of the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021 to 2030).
Launched alongside a regional health meeting
The partnership was introduced at a high-level meeting in Manila held next to the 77th session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Western Pacific. Delegations from Australia, China, Cook Islands, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines and Singapore shared lessons on prevention, primary care, community-based care, the health workforce and better links between health and social support, with a common focus on helping older people stay independent.
VSH take: the Western Pacific includes some of the world's oldest populations, so practical, tested ideas for staying active later in life could travel far beyond Hong Kong. A good habit to start at any age: check daily energy needs with our calorie calculator, track your BMI, or see exactly how old you are in days with the age calculator. More health news: new heat-health indicators for children.
This is our own summary of a WHO Western Pacific news release. It is general information, not medical advice. ViralScopeHub is not affiliated with WHO.
Why it matters
Populations across Asia and the Pacific are ageing quickly, and tested ways to keep older people healthy and independent can ease pressure on families and health systems.
People also ask
What is the new WHO healthy ageing initiative?
A four-year project by WHO's Western Pacific office and The Chinese University of Hong Kong, backed by about US$7 million, to develop and test ways to help older people keep their abilities and live well.
Who is funding it?
Hong Kong's Institute of Philanthropy and The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust.
When does the work begin?
In 2027, as part of the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030).
Related free tools: Age Calculator, Calorie Calculator (TDEE)
Sources
Every ViralScopeHub news item is an original summary written in our own words. We link to the original reporting so you can read the full story from the publisher.
