From the United States to the Philippines, seven nations at ACIF 2025 showed that while strategies differ, the shared vision is clear: caring for aging societies demands both innovation and humanity. (Source: Anke Media)

The Asia Pacific Care Industry Forum (ACIF) 2025, held on September 24, 2025, as part of Cares Expo Taipei 2025, gathered policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators from across the globe to address one of the most pressing challenges of our time—aging societies and the future of care.

Speakers from the morning session: (From left to right) Dr Theresa Chang, Stephen Becsi, Agnes Hew and the host for the morning session, Deputy Superintendent of Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Dr Tsu-an Kuo.

In a single day of intensive presentations and dialogue, speakers from the United States, Australia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines shared insights into their markets, technologies, and policy frameworks shaping elderly care. From workforce shortages and the rising cost of long-term care to the integration of AI, IoT, and dementia care models, ACIF 2025 provided a panoramic view of how countries are preparing for the demographic shift.

The event underscored the importance of cross-border collaboration and knowledge sharing, positioning Taiwan as a central hub for driving healthcare innovation in the Asia-Pacific region.

United States: Person-Centered Care Amid Rising Costs

Dr. Theresa Chang, President of Citizens for Quality Care Co. addressed the United States’ dementia challenge, noting that over 6.7 million Americans live with the condition. She emphasized person-centered care, promoting dignity and privacy in homelike environments such as Memory Cafes. While technology like AI companions supports engagement and efficiency, Chang cautioned that “it must never replace human empathy.” High costs restrict access for middle-class families, making innovative financing models critical. She urged Taiwan and Southeast Asia to consider the U.S. nonprofit ‘501(C)(3)’ fundraising model to strengthen care ecosystems.

Australia: Tech-Enabled Decentralization

Stephen Becsi, CEO of Apollo Care presented a decentralized model designed for efficiency in Australia’s deregulated aged care market. Operating without a head office, Apollo Care leverages cloud-based systems, outsourced expert support, and real-time dashboards to reduce fixed costs and free staff for frontline care. Its AI tool offers actionable advice on cost and income. The model has rescued 14 struggling facilities, with one site achieving a 243% underlying EBITDA surplus increase in just one year—a testament to its financial sustainability.

Singapore: Compassionate and Relational Care

Agnes Hew, Senior Director of Health & Social Care Services (Community) and Corporate Strategy in St. Luke’s Elder Care discussed Singapore’s urgent need for scalable care as the senior population rises rapidly and dementia prevalence is expected to double by 2028. She outlined SLC’s transition from mechanical to compassionate, relational care, prioritizing engagement over risk-aversion. Innovations include digital walls, Virtual Reality (VR) activities, and ‘the Golden Memories’ program, which uses AI to transform life stories into videos for more personalized care. Hew stressed that “care is not just about safety—it is about meaning.”

Thailand: Aging in Place with Technology

Dr. Nart Fongsmut, Director of Health & Wellness at LivWell Living highlighted Thailand’s commitment to aging-in-place, supported by IoT-based monitoring systems that enable nurses to track seniors’ health discreetly from a distance. This ensures timely responses while preserving comfort at home. LiveWell combines technology with multi-generational community models, universal design, and programs like supervised aqua exercise to extend healthy longevity. Dr. Fongsmut emphasized, “Independent living and community integration are essential to counter loneliness and support health span.”

Malaysia: Reablement and Community Integration

Anna Chew, Founder & CEO of Meaningfull Life underscored the need for fresh, engaging care models in Malaysia. Her Meaningfull Ecosystem integrates care hubs into commercial areas like malls and parks to reduce stigma and foster inclusion. Activities range from pickleball to tea art, while intergenerational programs strengthen community ties. With manpower shortages pressing, Meaningfull Life employs empathetic non-medical staff and leverages technology partnerships to deliver personalized care. “We must design programs that energize both seniors and caregivers,” Chew said.

Taiwan: Smart Care in Practice

Yu-Chun Sang, Director & Founder of Taipei Noble Healthcare Center showcased Taiwan’s advanced adoption of smart care technologies. His facility integrates IoT devices, contactless sensors, and smart diapers into unified dashboards, improving safety and efficiency. Pilot AI programs, such as fluorescent lotion handwashing checks, are supported by government grants. A unique management system tracks family engagement to prevent neglect. Sang emphasized that while technology is central, “balancing innovation with human compassion remains our philosophy.”

Philippines: Urgency of Reform

Dr. Miguel A. Ramos Jr, CEO/President of La Verna Aged Care and Dementia Village highlighted the Philippines’ demographic strain, with the elderly population projected to reach 10% by 2030 despite limited wealth. Care remains family-based but unsustainable long-term, with no specific LTC regulations in place. La Verna Aged Care and Dementia Village demonstrates scalable, cost-effective care models focused on dementia and assisted living. Ramos called for a gradual transition to state-supported LTC and regional cooperation, stressing that “aging is not a future problem—it is today’s urgent challenge.”

Conclusion

Speakers from the afternoon session: (From left to right) Dr. Nart Fongsmut, Anna Chew, Yu-Chun Sang, Dr. Miguel A. Ramos Jr and the host for the afternoon session, Executive Director of National Center for Geriatrics Welfare Research, Dr Chih-Cheng Hsu.

ACIF 2025 underscored a shared reality across regions: soaring care demand, workforce shortages, and the need for innovative funding and technologies. While each country adapts differently—through nonprofit models, AI-enabled management, relational care, or community hubs—the central theme remains clear: sustainable aged care must strike a balance between technology and empathy, efficiency and dignity.

From the United States to the Philippines, seven countries echoed this vision in their own unique ways, and in the coming weeks, we will be sharing exclusive in-depth features with each speaker—stay tuned.

Interview by Sourcingcares