Chinese seniors enjoy more access to home-based care services

In the Gusu District of Suzhou City, located in East China's Jiangsu Province, the second phase of an elderly care center is currently undergoing cleaning and preparation. This center, repurposed from a previously idle valve factory, will offer over 600 medical care beds once it opens, according to the staff.

This development follows the launch of the center's first phase, a senior care apartment with 80 beds, which is now fully occupied by elderly residents from nearby communities. One of the residents, Dai Duo, said, "The comprehensive services here, including meals, laundry, accommodation and bed care, make life much more convenient."

The population of Gusu District is experiencing a high rate of aging, with seniors constituting as much as 33 percent of its residents. This demographic shift has led to a strong demand for community-based elderly care. However, limited land resources in the district complicate efforts to meet this need.

"Considering the distinct characteristics of the region, the demographic structure of the residents, and other particular local conditions, the district has developed a construction plan for the project," said Fei Ying, an official from the civil affairs and health authorities of Gusu District. "So far we have revitalized about 32,000 square meters of unused space."

The project, which provides community elderly care, rehabilitation services, skill training, and various other services for the local senior population, has secured financial support from both national subsidies and a joint investment from two major central enterprises.

"Previously, this site was just idle property, rented out in small portions. It's a more suitable location since elderly people generally prefer not to travel too far," said Qiao Jiafeng, who is in charge of the project.

Currently, elderly care institutions integrated within communities mainly provide supplemental services, noted Sun Juanjuan, professor at the School of Sociology and Population Studies, Renmin University of China.

"Most elderly individuals reside in diverse communities, where integrating care services with community resources is more accessible, practical and inclusive," explained Sun, an expert in aging population research, to CGTN. "Fully utilizing community resources is essential for effectively enhancing these services."

"Communities already possess existing facilities like activity centers and canteens, which can be effectively revitalized and utilized, thereby optimizing the use of community resources," she added.

China has over 280 million aged 60 and above, including around 40 million with disabilities. Despite over 8.2 million care beds in institutions, there is still a demand gap for care, especially for disabled or semi-disabled seniors lacking professional support for daily activities, even when living with family. To bridge this gap, "home-based care beds" have been introduced, bringing institutional care services directly into seniors' homes.

In Deqing County, Zhejiang Province, 89-year-old Zhu Jimin, visually impaired and dependent on his daughter for daily assistance, now uses a "home-based care bed." Installed by local civil affairs staff, this smart system monitors his health, and provides real-time data to a care platform, alerting family and medical staff to any irregularities. In emergencies, Zhu can easily summon help with a click.

As part of China's pilot program for community-based home care services, home-based care beds provide various professional services for seniors. In Shanxi Province, 75-year-old Liu Qiaowen with cerebral infarction receives regular visits from nursing staff for medical aid, walking assistance, cleaning, and meal preparation, after her recent application for a home-based care bed.

China has provided over 235,000 home-based care beds nationwide, serving 418,000 elderly individuals, according to the Ministry of Civil Affairs. Pilot programs in Jiangsu, Beijing, Zhejiang and Guangdong are leading the way. By 2025, China aims to expand and standardize these beds, reinforcing their importance in home care services.

"Home-based care services are crucial in tackling the challenges of aging and meeting the needs of the elderly," said Sun. "They play a key role in helping seniors maintain their independence and quality of life, while providing vital support within the familiar comfort of their own homes."

In response, the government plays a vital role, as highlighted by Sun. Through policy initiatives and financial support, including purchasing services and offering subsidies, it actively supports these home-based care services.

Sun notes that the government could also implement incentive measures to encourage elderly care enterprises and social organizations to contribute to the service provision. This not only broadens the care network but also ensures robust standards and quality control.