China Advances Elderly Care Services with Improved Access and Quality

China has initially established a nationwide "single network" of elderly care services covering both urban and rural areas, with plans to further expand, upgrade and enhance the efficiency of the sector, it was announced at a press conference focused on people’s livelihoods during the Fourth Session of the 14th National People’s Congress on 7 March.

A comprehensive framework for elderly care has taken shape across the country. At the county level, public elderly care institutions generally serve as the primary platform and coordination hub. More than half of all towns and subdistricts have established regional elderly care centres, while embedded community elderly care centres have been built in urban areas, alongside neighbourhood mutual-aid points and rural happiness homes in rural regions. As a result, a growing number of elderly people are able to access convenient and accessible care services right on their doorstep, or even in the comfort of their own homes.

Looking ahead, efforts will be stepped up to update equipment in elderly care institutions, strengthen specialized training for elderly care professionals, and vigorously develop elderly care technology. Stricter quality and safety management of elderly care services will also be implemented to better ensure that the elderly can live their later years in comfort and security.

In addition, the supply of inclusive elderly care institutions will be continuously expanded, with the cultivation of professional, chain-based and brand-led elderly care service providers. Great emphasis will be placed on developing home-based care services supported by villages and communities, as well as supporting the development of mutual-aid elderly care services.

In terms of social welfare support, China has basically established a hierarchical and classified social assistance system, fully put in place a national basic elderly care service system, set up a welfare guarantee system for children in difficulty, and improved the social security and care service system for people with disabilities.

Moving forward, the Ministry of Civil Affairs will act in accordance with the requirements of the 15th Five-Year Plan Outline and the Government Work Report. Adhering to the principles of ensuring basic needs, securing the bottom line, preventing risks and maintaining sustainability, it will better play the role of social welfare support as a "stabilizer", "pressure valve" and "safety net" for people’s livelihoods.