Eldercare models need support, not bureaucracy

Chen Tao, a professor at and vice dean of the School of Politics and Laws, University of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences

The new eldercare models, including baotuan yanglao, complement the traditional family-based and community-supported elderly care system, which cannot reach all senior citizens and is found wanting in certain areas.

Unlike eldercare homes, baotuan yanglao can help the elderly to maintain their social contacts and live in an environment distinct from and perhaps friendlier than a nursing home. Also, senior citizens living in a baotuan yanglao could get support from other people, something which they may not get at home. It is a significant and meaningful trial, especially because we have a not-so-efficient pension system.

The baotuan yanglao model suits the practical needs of senior citizens and has operational flexibility. Yet once authorized or taken over by the government, it could become rigid because of bureaucratic influence. So the government should offer assistance and support only when needed. In other words, the authorities should respect what the senior citizens are doing in the field of eldercare.

Medical care system needs to be reformed

Li Jianmin, a professor at the Institute of Population and Development, Nankai University

Elderly care models similar to baotuan yanglao have been experimented with overseas, including in countries such as Germany and the United States. Yet such eldercare facilities have relatively strict requirements. For instance, the inmates need to be in good health. The baotuan yanglao model is suitable for senior citizens below 70 years, because those older than 70 may need regular medical care. And speaking of medical care, the current healthcare system should be reformed so that it can meet all the needs of elderly people. For example, many hospitals ask patients to register online or use their official apps without even thinking that the elderly may not be adept at using modern technology. Also, senior citizens with chronic diseases often cannot get medicines in bulk because of medical regulations and are thus forced to go to the hospital at regular intervals. Such problems can be solved only through reform.