Hackathon to uncover solutions that help people stay at home as they age
The University of Newcastle will put innovators, problem solvers, tech heads and designers to the test at the New Futures Hackathon for Ageing in Place with the challenge to build a technical solution which keeps people independent, in control and at home while they age.
In the two-day event, held at the University’s I2N Hub Honeysuckle, participants will have the opportunity to learn from healthcare experts and technical mentors before embarking on the ten hour “hack” in teams to harness their ideas into a viable, technological solution.
University of Newcastle’s Siobhan Curran, Manager of the Integrated Innovation Network (I2N) said the New Futures Hackathon is a health-focused hackathon aimed at addressing the implications of the world’s ageing population.
“Australia has a high proportion of its population aged 65 and older with that segment expected to continue to grow to 23% of the total population by 2066. Our aged care facilities are stretched, and the recent Royal Commission into Aged Care revealed most people want to remain in their own homes as they grow older.” Ms Curran said.
“The University is excited to host the hackathon as an opportunity for people of all backgrounds and experience to learn new skills, unite their ideas and build innovative work in an effort to overcome the barriers our community and health system faces for people who prefer to age in place.”
Attendees from all backgrounds are welcome to participate, including coders, graphic designers, scientists, researchers, students, business professionals and entrepreneurs. Prior experience within the aged care sector is not a requirement.
The winning team with the best technological solution– a website, app, or anything in the tech realm will receive $3,000 and a three-month residency at I2N Hub Honeysuckle with specialist mentorship. The runner-up will receive $2,000 and the Rising Star award will acknowledge a standout team with a $500 reward.
Important dates
From 5:30PM Friday 21 October through to 7PM Saturday 22 October 2022
I2N Hub Honeysuckle
For more information and register your attendance, visit www.newcastle.edu.au/hackathon
Contact
- Siobhan Curran
- Email: i2n@newcastle.edu.au
Related news
- Launch of the School Students’ Statement on the Right to a Healthy Environment
- Funding boost to technology for lower emission steel
- Newcastle team on mission to improve childhood cancer outcomes
- Shanae’s passion for caring delivers her dream to work in health
- Food and nutrition degree serves Keren a rewarding career
Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.