Senior services expo in Beijing showcases more smart care solutions

The 11th China International Senior Services Expo wrapped up Friday in Beijing, highlighting the latest innovations in elder care technology and products, especially more smart devices and eldercare robots.

The four-day expo attracted over 220 government departments, social organizations, and brand agencies from over ten countries and regions. Both traditional and cutting-edge products for elderly care were on display at the expo. Apart from wheelchairs and nursing beds, there was a wide array of specialized items, including senior-friendly tableware, food, and clothing.

One exhibitor introduced a kind of fabric specially developed for older adults with antibacterial and deodorizing properties.

"We hope to address specific needs of seniors through textile innovation and see this as a breakthrough point for our industry," said the exhibitor.

The expo demonstrated that the booming "silver economy" is giving traditional industries a fresh boost. Another exhibitor introduced over 200 senior products, including voice-enabled appliances designed to be more accessible for elderly users. These products also qualify for a 30 percent government subsidy under the aging-friendly home renovation policy.

"Our microwave uses high-contrast, large red, yellow, and green characters. When pressed, each button gives voice feedback," another exhibitor said.

Various eldercare robots were among the most popular attractions on the show floor. These included nursing robots and companion robots like "Xiao Li," which can play chess with seniors and provide emotional support.

"When the elderly person leaves the house, Xiao Li follows them to the door and reminds them not to forget essentials like their phone or keys. When they return, the robot greets them, allowing them to place any purchased items into its storage compartment conveniently. It then helps transport those items to the kitchen or other areas," explained an exhibitor.

Senior services expo in Beijing showcases more smart care solutions

China's commissioning of "five essentials for aircraft carriers" marks a a significant achievement of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy’s accelerated transformation and development, said Jiang Bin, spokesman for the Ministry of National Defense, at a press conference in Beijing on Saturday.

The "five essentials" refer to stealth carrier-based fighters, multirole catapult-assisted carrier-based fighters, fixed-wing carrier-based early warning aircraft, fixed-wing electronic warfare aircraft, and anti-submarine helicopters.

"The package, or what media have dubbed the 'five essentials for aircraft carriers,' is a vital link in forming the systematic combat capability of aircraft carrier formations and a significant achievement in the PLA Navy’s accelerated transformation and development. Building a strong PLA Navy embodies the Chinese nation's long-cherished aspiration of striving to be a strong naval power and serves as an important guarantee for realizing national rejuvenation. In the new era, under the firm leadership of the CPC Central Committee, the Central Military Commission and President Xi, the modernization of the PLA Navy has become increasingly solid and powerful. From the air to the sea, from coastal waters to the open ocean, the types and functions of various weapons platforms have been continuously improved, achieving leapfrog development and innovative breakthroughs, providing stronger guarantees for safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests," he said.

Spokesman confirms commissioning of 'five essentials' for carriers