China's elderly comprises about 15 percent of its total population, that is, there are 200 million individuals aged 60 years and above in the country. This number is estimated to increase to 243 million by 2020. To care for the growing number of elderly people, the Ministry of Civil Affairs (MCA) is emphasizing the need for more diversified senior care facilities as well as small care homes that can serve those that are situated in local communities.

Like Us on Facebook

According to Zhen Bingliang, an official from the Social Welfare Center of MCA, although there are currently 13,000 private care homes in China, small and neighborly institutions are preferred by most elderly people including their children. But these kind of facilities are limited now.

Zhen added that a local facility network would not only be of convenience for families, but also practical for big establishments, as a number of beds are left empty because demand was overestimated.

As part of its 13th Five-year Plan, China has pinpointed the importance of fostering the development of a more varied healthcare sector. The said plan that covers between 2016 and 2020 includes the provision of more financial grants for senior citizens.

Meanwhile, in a separate report, China has revealed that it plans to add between 35 and 40 geriatric nursing beds per 1000 patients by the end of 2020. 

In a press conference, senior ministry official Feng Yaping said that at least 30 percent of the beds will be made available for both mentally and physically disabled individuals by the end of 2020.

In December, lawmakers revealed that approximately 90 percent of China elderly population stay at home and only 3 percent are in assisted care facilities. The rest of them opt for community-based services. 

TagsMinistry of Civil Affairs, china, Elderly population, geriatric care