HKUST Sensory Restaurant on Wheels

The Project Futurus partnered with The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) recently and hosted a heartwarming session of "Sensory Restaurant on Wheels", bringing together over 80 seniors with swallowing difficulties and their families for a nostalgic dining experience. Led by HKUST President Prof. Nancy Ip and distinguished guests including Dr. Lam Ching-choi, CEO of Haven of Hope Christian Service, the event showcased how tradition and technology can merge to enhance elderly care.

Guests served soft-textured dim sum from traditional carts, offering visually authentic and delicious alternatives to standard puréed meals. Dr. Lam emphasized the importance of presentation in stimulating appetite and preserving dignity, noting that recent innovations now allow softmeals to retain the cherished look of classic dishes like Siu Mai.

HKUST startup Elevatefoods Technology is pioneering 3D printing to produce soft foods—such as chicken legs and broccoli—in. PanopticAI, another HKUST startup, and its FDA-cleared, contactless monitoring technology uses a 30-second facial scan to measure vital signs like heart rate, breathing rate, stress level, and blood pressure.

The event also featured live performances by HKUST students and volunteer service through HKUST Connect, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. Together, these efforts reflect a compassionate and innovative approach to elderly care—where technology, tradition, and community come together to improve lives.

Source: HKUST

https://hkust.edu.hk/news/reviving-joyful-bites-hkust-curates-inclusive-soft-meal-dim-sum-experience