China Develops Home and Community Care Services for the Elderly

China is actively encouraging the development of elderly care services, especially home-based and community care, as it aligns with the country’s traditional cultural values.


The Chinese Minister of Civil Affairs, Lu Zhiyuan, made this statement during an interview at the second session of the 14th National People’s Congress in Beijing on March 8.

According to Lu, by the end of 2023, the number of people over 60 years old in China will reach 297 million, accounting for 21.1% of the total population. He pointed out that China’s aging population has three notable characteristics: a large elderly population, rapid aging rate, and the urgent need to address the challenges associated with an aging population.

In the coming years, the Ministry of Civil Affairs will actively implement the national strategy for addressing the aging population by enhancing institutional innovation and policy support. Specifically, the country will continue to focus on improving the social security system, addressing funding for elderly care, and enhancing the care and medical support system for the elderly.

Lu further emphasized that China will continue to refine the integrated model of home-based, community-based, and institutional care services for the elderly. He stated that most elderly people in China prefer home-based care, as it is part of the country’s cultural tradition.

To meet this demand, China will renovate elderly-friendly homes and establish smart home care beds, provide meal assistance for the elderly, and require care facilities to offer home-based services such as cleaning, bathing, and especially establish mechanisms for caring and visiting lonely elderly individuals without any support.

It is worth mentioning that many localities in China are currently piloting and implementing models for providing elderly care services directly at home and in residential areas, using advanced technology and attracting social resources. This approach aligns with the Chinese government’s goal of achieving “common prosperity” for all citizens.

Business Today believes that China’s focus on developing home and community care services for the elderly demonstrates its commitment to addressing the challenges posed by its aging population. By providing accessible and personalized care, China aims to ensure the well-being and dignity of its elderly citizens.

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