Calls ring out for better care of the elderly
Print Edition
China celebrated Seniors Day yesterday with pledges to do more to ensure proper care of those aged 60 or above.
In Beijing, Yan Futian, 76, enjoyed the day at the 9th China International Garden Expo as he was shuttled for free to the event.
Beijing has a population of more than 20 million, of which about a fifth are above the age of 60.
About 400 people in Beijing celebrate their 60th birthday every day.
“From now on, in Beijing, newly built residential areas should contain facilities for the elderly,” said Beijing Deputy Mayor Dai Junliang. “Enterprises providing aged care services will receive preferential policies and tax breaks.”
Although Beijing allocates more than 5 billion yuan (US$816.9 million) annually for elderly care, 150,000 become seniors annually, creating a challenge for the municipal government.
“We need all of society’s help to provide better care for aged people,” Dai said.
Nationally, more than 194 million were 60 or above last year. The figure is expected to exceed 300 million by 2025.
Without proper care from their children or society, more seniors in China are encountering psychological problems including depression, anxiety and insomnia.
On Saturday, a 70-year-old from Shengyang City, capital of Liaoning Province, committed suicide by jumping from her third-floor window.
According to her neighbors, the old lady had been depressed for years. The day before she jumped, she cried out, “Fire, fire!” in her apartment. But when neighbors rushed to help her, they found no fire.
Liu Changhui, a psychologist at Shenyang Mental Health Center, said about 5 percent of seniors are depressed, 5 percent suffer from anxiety and 44 percent have insomnia.
He said better care by family and society can make a difference in their lives.
Huai Jukui, a retired citizen in Beijing, said he enjoys his life, drawing a monthly pension of 5,500 yuan and having access to a cafeteria, community center and barbershop in his community.
“But the best time for me is when I get to see my children,” said Huai.
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