An overview report on the situation of elderly people in urban and rural China: 2000–2015

Abstract

China had become a country with an aging population by the end of the 20th century. Dealing with the aging of its population is a long-term strategic task for China. “The National Survey on Elderly People in Urban and Rural China” has been carried out four times since the year 2000. The data shows that during the years 2000 to 2015 the wellbeing of elderly people in urban and rural China improved greatly. The economic status of the elderly has obviously improved; and there have also been steady improvements to social security protections, health care services and the availability of social activities in which the elderly can participate. In addition, the spiritual and cultural life of the elderly has become richer and more colorful. The aging of society creates challenges, such as potential shortages of labor resources, the weakening of family functions and the need for more medical care facilities and services, and these intensify over time. At the same time, changes to the structure of demand and of industry caused by societal aging bring many opportunities.