We live in an age where developments in technology and modern medicine have allowed people to live longer. But with that comes a challenge that affects every family around the world – how do we take care of our increasing ageing loved ones? This is a growing issue globally, and particularly in China.
In China, the recently repealed one-child policy, which was introduced 35 years ago, has resulted in a skewed population. A 2010 report released by a government think tank said China will become the world’s most aged society in 2030. The report, called China’s Financial Policy Report from 2010 to 2011, predicted that by 2050, senior citizens will make up more than 30 percent of China’s total population.
With such a large population of people 60 years and over, China has huge potential in leading the way the rest of Asia perceive and treat their senior citizens. China, with the right research and development, could lead the global healthy-ageing efforts as well develop infrastructure to make their megacities more age-friendly.
To better care for their senior citizens, China is looking to Australia as an example for high-quality senior care services. Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Hsin Chong Group Holdings, Ir Joseph Choi, believes there is an opportunity to expand into aged care services in the Chinese market.
“We all grow old and we all want to be well looked after in our old age. But society has changed and understanding the of modern life pressures many elderly may not wish to be a burden on their younger generations. So we see a gap that we can fill to provide a high-quality, total care solution that provide just a comfortable and dignified living environment, but also a place where they can have fun and remain socially active, meeting both the senior their families’ expectations.”
Hsin Chong Group Holdings recently partnered with an Australian firm, Sapphire Group Holdings, to introduce senior care services to Mainland China and South East Asia. He believes that in taking care of the ageing population, families overall will be happier, “with us taking on the more demanding side of the care needed, children and grand-children can concentrate on just being able to spend quality time with their parents or grand-parents.”
Developing better aged care services in China and Southeast Asia will not only create improved care for the elderly, as well give their families peace of mind, but will generate new jobs and strengthen the economy. Overall, it’s a win for everyone.
I don’t think anyone should be able to profit from our elderly. Only the wealthy elderly will be able to give the private industries a good life. What about the poor? Sounds to me like it will be the same crap it is today. Private companies profiting from the elderly and getting fatter by the day!