The ‘Healthy Aging Prize for Asian Innovation’ (HAPI) is an initiative of the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) and the Japan Center for International Exchange (JCIE), under the auspices of the Japanese government’s Asia Health and Wellbeing Initiative (AHWIN).

This prize seeks to recognise and amplify innovative policies, programmes, services, and products that address the challenges facing ageing societies. The objective is to highlight cutting-edge ideas that people throughout the region can emulate or access. There are three award categories, namely: Technology and innovation, Community-based initiatives, and Supporting self-reliance. The selection of awardees was carried out by an international committee of experts.

From more than 130 applicants from 12 countries, three HelpAge network members and a HelpAge office were selected for the great work they have done for older people. Their innovation and dedication to improving older people’s wellbeing over years has been recognised. Here are the names of our colleagues and their awards.

  • Grand prize winner (Technology & Innovation category) – Foundation for Older Persons’ Development (FOPDEV), Thailand for the Buddy HomeCare social enterprise business
  • Grand prize winner (Community-Based Initiative category) – HelpAge Country Office in Vietnam for the Intergenerational Self-Help Club (ISHC) development model
  • Second prize winner (Technology & Innovation category) – forOldy, Thailand for ‘Grandpa – Grandma’ charity shop renting and selling age-assistive devices
  • Second prize winner (Supporting Self-Reliance category) – Vietnam Association of the Elderly (VAE) for ‘Bright Eyes’ programme for older people in Vietnam.

In regard to the ISHC model, it has been piloted by HelpAge International in Vietnam and local partners since 2006.  This community-based organisations model promotes healthy longevity through a range of inter-generational activities. The ISHCs now number nearly 3,000 nationwide and have become the largest care providers in the country.

The announcement ceremony was held online on 31 August 2020. The complete list of prize-winners is available on AHWIN website at along with their profiles and short documentaries.