The search for seniors living ideas is on

The Seniors Living Innovation Challenge, as part of the project run as an Australian-first collaboration between the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) and four aged care industry partners, is offering entries the chance to win $20,000 as a prize for coming up with the winning idea, which is then expected to be developed into a functional and beneficial reality.

Aged care provider IRT Group is one of the participating industry partners who are hoping to be presented with some ‘game-changing’ ideas from individuals or groups interested in making a difference to the lives of Australian seniors.

“The competition aims to uncover creative proposals that will empower people over 65 to live the life they choose,” IRT Group Chief Executive Officer Stig Anderson says.

“The Senior Living Innovation project is all about fostering active ageing, community connectedness and business innovation.”

Mr Anderson says the Challenge welcomes entries from entrepreneurs, students, architects, urban designers, industrial designers, creative thinkers and community groups and the like.

He adds that whether it is housing digital services, innovative products or new technologies, the Challenge is looking for new thinking to enable older people to continue to engage and enjoy their lifestyle.

“Think robotics, smart houses, nano and wearable technology, intentional and intergenerational communities,” Mr Anderson says.

“When you combine one of Australia’s leading technology universities with industry partners and forward-thinking consumers, the possibilities are endless.”

Entries are open in three categories, including: design a new community, create new products and services for the future and wildcard for any innovative ideas that don’t fit the allocated categories.

Stage one of the Challenge competition is open now until 7 November 2017 and will see entrants submit a 3-5 minute video outlining an innovative idea.

Shortlisted entrants will be announced on 24 November 2017 and will be required to submit a full proposal by 6 February 2018.

The final winner of the competition will be announced in late February 2018.

Full details can be found online or via email.