As China faces the growing challenge of an aging population, the nation is ramping up its elderly care initiatives to ensure a dignified and comfortable life for its senior citizens.
During a national conference on civil affairs this Monday, officials highlighted significant advancements in home-based care, nursing facilities, and protections for seniors planned for 2024, along with new strategies set for 2025.
Home-based elderly care remains a cornerstone of these initiatives, honoring traditional family values by allowing the majority of seniors to age in place. In 2024, the central government allocated 300 million yuan ($41.73 million) to bolster elderly meal assistance programs across the country. Additionally, efforts to expand in-home care have led to the establishment of 358,000 new care beds.
Institutional care is also experiencing robust growth. By October 2024, China had developed 404,000 elderly care institutions and facilities, providing comprehensive support to those who prefer or require professional assistance.
Looking forward to 2025, the Ministry of Civil Affairs is set to introduce policies that encourage greater social participation among the elderly and enhance the protection of their legal rights. These measures aim to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for seniors.
Official statistics reveal that by the end of 2023, 297 million Chinese residents were aged 60 or above, representing 21.1 percent of the total population. This demographic shift underscores the critical importance of the ongoing and future elderly care initiatives.
Reference(s):
China expands elderly care initiatives amid aging population challenge
cgtn.com
