System to better address graying challenge

China is taking major steps to tackle the challenges of an aging population by expanding and enhancing its eldercare system, officials said on Friday.

Lu Zhiyuan, minister of civil affairs, said at a news conference on Friday that by the end of last year, the country had increased the number of its eldercare facilities and institutions to 406,000, providing nearly 8 million beds. The percentage of nursing beds rose from 48 percent in 2020 to 65.7 percent in 2024.

"These efforts are part of a national strategy to improve benefits for the elderly as the country is taking a proactive approach to population aging," Lu said.

The efforts also include financial support and the development of senior-friendly communities and services, he said, adding that over the past five years, China has built 2,990 such communities, and has served meals daily to 3 million elderly residents.

Various forms of financial assistance — including advanced-age allowances and nursing care subsidies for seniors with disabilities — reached nearly 50 million eligible recipients, he added.

The central government had planned to expand a subsidy program for eldercare services consumption nationwide, Liu Zhenguo, vice-minister of civil affairs, said at the news conference.

The government started implementing the program in some pilot provinces and cities in July, providing 1.16 billion yuan ($163 million) in support.

The subsidy program covers home-based, community and institutional eldercare services. Among these, home-based and community care services include meals and bathing, as well as rehabilitation nursing and day care.

Liu said that during China's 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25), the nation's life expectancy has been increasing, reaching 79 years at present. This represents a rise of 1.07 years from 2020 and is five years above the global average.

"As life expectancy rises, the country's population is aging more rapidly," Liu said, adding that by the end of last year, the number of people aged 60 and older in China had grown to 310 million, making up 22 percent of its total population.

"The government is working to create a more senior-friendly environment by updating old neighborhoods, making travel easier for the elderly and promoting senior-friendly healthcare," Liu said, adding that China also aims to enhance social participation among seniors by improving policies and the social environment.

He said that the Silver Age Action is central to this effort, fostering sustained elderly volunteer services. As of the end of September, more than 50 million aged volunteers had registered.

"The initiative broadens opportunities for seniors to engage in society and encourages them to create value and find fulfillment in their later years through meaningful activities," Liu said.