"Let's truly see the elderly around us," said Hu Yong, professor at the School of Journalism and Communication, Peking University.

As China transitions into a rapidly aging society, Hu emphasized the need for the public to rethink how they perceive older adults. Rather than viewing the elderly as fragile or declining, society should recognize that they can still make significant contributions and find fulfillment in this phase of life, Hu said.

"Older people can still reach new heights in life. Their potential for creative thinking should never be underestimated," he quoted from "Yang Lao Ren Sheng" ("A Life in Old Age"), written by Qian Liqun, a former professor in the Department of Chinese Language and Literature at Peking University, and published by CITIC Press, a leading publishing house in China.

According to figures released by China's National Health Commission, the country's average life expectancy reached 79 years by the end of 2024, representing an increase of 1.1 years since 2020.

In this episode of PAGE X, CGTN sits down with Professor Hu to explore how society can better adapt to an aging population. Drawing from his personal experience caring for his parents, Hu reflects on the often-overlooked presence of the elderly in everyday life and calls for genuine attention, understanding and compassion toward this vital and diverse group.

About PAGE X

PAGE X invites guests from diverse fields to share a single selection from one of their favorite books. Through our speakers' interpretations, this program offers the public online access to the world's greatest intellectual works, helping them rediscover the enduring charm of reading.

Executive Producer: Zhang Jingwen

Producer: Yang Sha

Directors: Li Yue, Xu Wen, Zhong Xia

Video editor: Li Yue

Videographers: Liu Yuhao, Guo Huakang, Gao Peng

Cover photo: Pei Zihan, Du Chenxin