Shanghai is adopting smart elderly care solutions as China's population ages, leveraging the latest technologies to improve care for seniors and exploring the growing potential of the silver economy.
With over 37 percent of its residents aged 60 and above, Shanghai has rolled out the "Action Plan for Advancing the Development of Elderly Care Technology," with the goal of making the city a national hub for elderly care innovation by 2027. As demand for high-quality elderly care solutions rises, Shanghai is also witnessing a surge in the silver economy.
To address healthcare concerns, many elderly care facilities in the city have integrated with local online hospital systems, allowing seniors to have remote consultations with doctors. Additionally, digital tools have enabled family members to receive real-time updates on their loved ones' conditions.
"Families used to have concerns when sending loved ones to an elderly care facility. But with our smart elderly care system, family members can see real-time updates on their parents' conditions," said Ding Ling, director of the Wanghong Yuexin Elderly Care Facility in Shanghai.
Beyond care facilities, the Shanghai government has implemented initiatives to assist seniors at home. By setting up assistive product showcase centers across the city, the government is introducing innovative assistive technologies to everyone in need to improve the daily life of elderly residents.
"There are so many products here that cater to the diverse needs of elderly people. I would say that they are doing a good job, because every one of we elderlies have different needs," said Feng Yizhan, a Shanghai resident visiting the venue.
These centers have had a significant impact, addressing the growing demand for elderly care solutions.
"This platform has been a great demonstration. Many elderly people visiting our venue were surprised that there exist so many assistive devices that can bring benefit their lives so much," said Shen Yu, chairman of Shanghai Prosthetics Factory under the Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Civil Affairs.
From smart elderly care systems to diverse assistive products, Shanghai is committed to fostering an inclusive society for seniors while tapping into the immense potential of the silver economy.
Shanghai explores smart elderly care solutions
