During China’s pivotal Two Sessions political gatherings, national lawmakers have issued urgent appeals for strengthened policy and financial mechanisms to address the growing elderly care crisis in rural regions. With approximately 120 million seniors constituting nearly a quarter of rural populations, representatives emphasize that current support systems require substantial improvement to meet demographic demands.
National People’s Congress deputy Ma Jinlian from Shanxi province highlighted the particular vulnerabilities facing rural elders, noting their limited pension resources and dependence on children who often migrate to urban centers for employment. “The remaining family members frequently struggle with low-wage agricultural work, making professional care services financially inaccessible,” Ma explained, drawing from her oversight experience with three elderly care institutions in Lyuliang city.
While acknowledging recent governmental efforts to enhance rural care infrastructure, Ma pointed to significant implementation gaps preventing policies from delivering tangible benefits. She specifically referenced a joint civil affairs and finance ministry initiative providing monthly subsidies of up to 800 yuan ($116) to seniors with moderate or severe disabilities, but noted technological barriers undermine its effectiveness.
“Many elderly residents lack smartphone proficiency or hesitate to entrust devices to others, creating cumbersome redemption processes,” Ma observed. She proposed simplifying distribution through direct cash transfers or institutional cost offsets to alleviate burdens on both seniors and care facility staff.
Fellow NPC deputy Xu Lianhong, operating a medical-care integrated nursing home in Zhongyang county, reinforced the necessity of collaborative approaches involving government, institutions, families, and society. Her county’s innovative assistance project, launched in 2023 with annual funding of 10 million yuan, supports public services and operational subsidies across more than 100 facilities including nursing homes, community dining centers, and daycare facilities.
These institutions currently serve nearly 5,000 vulnerable elders with comprehensive support ranging from meal provision to medical assistance. Xu’s 200-bed facility charges between 2,000-4,000 yuan monthly based on care requirements, with government support covering bed subsidies and rental costs. While currently operating at break-even, Xu anticipates long-term profitability through reputation building and increased occupancy.
Both legislators emphasized elderly care as a long-term social commitment rather than immediate revenue generator. Xu additionally advocated for eliminating occupational stigma surrounding care work and developing professional talent pipelines to ensure seniors can experience their later years with “dignity, warmth, and happiness.”