Research Overview

Exploring digital pathways for Active Aging

2021
User Research
UI/UX Design
Software Development

Project
GoActive

In September 2019, the PolyU Jockey Club “Operation SoInno” launched its Season 5 theme, “Re-imagine Elderly Centres,” as part of the “One from Hundred Thousand” Social Innovation Symposium. This initiative partnered with three elderly centers, including Dr. Lam Chik Suen District Elderly Community Centre (DECC), to explore innovative approaches for improving services and community engagement.

This report documents the development of GO Active, an event listing platform designed to modernize elderly services. Created between November 2019 and 2021, the platform simplifies access to activities and resources, bridging the gap between traditional services and digital engagement. By integrating feedback from stakeholders and leveraging design thinking, the project demonstrates how technology can support "Active Ageing" while enhancing accessibility and operational efficiency for elderly centers.

Introduction

Reimagining elderly services in an ageing Hong Kong

As one-third of Hong Kong’s population will soon be over 65, traditional service models must evolve to meet changing demands. Elderly centers like H.K.S.K.H. Lady MacLehose Centre face growing challenges, including limited capacity, geographic constraints, and increasing service complexity. The need for innovative solutions to promote "Active Aging" has never been more urgent.

GO Active was conceived as a digital response to these challenges, enabling elderly users to easily access event details, register for activities, and stay informed about center updates—all from the comfort of their homes. By adopting an online-to-offline (O2O) model, this platform fosters greater independence among elderly members, enhances engagement, and streamlines operations for staff.

GoActive PLATFORM

Simplifying access, strengthening connections

GO Active transformed event management at H.K.S.K.H. Lady MacLehose Centre into an intuitive digital platform. Elderly users could explore activity listings, register for events, and receive timely updates through a streamlined interface. This transition eliminated the need for in-person visits, reducing logistical challenges and boosting social participation, promoting the concept of "Active Ageing."

The platform, named after "Generation Orange" (橘世代)—a term celebrating socially active individuals aged 50 to 65—simplified administrative tasks for staff by automating registration tracking and content updates. GO Active bridged traditional services with digital tools, fostering greater community engagement and operational efficiency.

Design Principles

Crafting a future-ready platform for Active Aging

The design process followed principles focused on usability, accessibility, and engagement. The platform prioritized a straightforward user journey tailored to the needs of elderly users, with clear navigation and simplified workflows to encourage active participation. Features like event discovery and registration were streamlined to reduce barriers, promoting social engagement and independence among users.

GO Active’s development was shaped by workshops involving elderly members and staff. These sessions revealed challenges such as the in-situ registration burden, low tech adoption among some elderly, and the need for clear, accessible interface

Current State of Ageing

Understanding the evolving needs of the young old

The research revealed that many "young olds" (individuals aged 50 to 65) are not only proficient in using technology but also actively seek activities that promote physical and mental well-being. This tech-savviness highlights the untapped potential for elderly centers to expand their services through digital platforms designed to be user-friendly and engaging.

By offering tailored events and activities that encourage participation, elderly centers can foster a culture of active aging. This shift represents a significant opportunity to enhance the quality of life for this dynamic and growing demographic.

Dive into the GO Active project case study

VIEW CASE STUDY →

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