Beijing introduces new policies to improve service guarantees for the elderly and the elderly with disability and dementia

During a press conference on October 9, a representative from the Beijing Civil Affairs Bureau outlined new initiatives aimed at bolstering support for the elderly, particularly those aged 80 and above, referred to as “older old adults.” The newly announced measures, officially titled “Several Measures for Strengthening Service Guarantees for ‘Older Old Adults,'” are designed to allocate additional resources towards care and support for this population, encompassing both self-sufficient seniors and those with disabilities or dementia.

The representative specified that “older old adults” are defined as individuals who are 80 years or older. Additionally, the policy extends similar support to disabled or demented elderly individuals who are under 80. Current statistics indicate that there are approximately 698,000 “older old adults” in Beijing, along with around 157,000 younger disabled or demented seniors, totaling roughly 855,000 elderly individuals set to benefit from these new initiatives.

These measures comprise 20 specific actions across six primary areas. A major emphasis is placed on enhancing the assessment of needs and ensuring safety nets for older old adults. Key components include refining the subsidy system for this age group and improving services tailored to those with severe disabilities or dementia, such as bolstering home care services and increasing the availability of family care beds.

Regarding facilities, the proposed measures aim to establish a comprehensive network for community home care services centered around elder care service hubs. This network will feature various support points, including elder care institutions and neighborhood assistance centers, in partnership with community health service centers. Plans also include strengthening rural mutual assistance care services by connecting township elder care centers with caregiving stations and local support points.

The measures further prioritize advances in medical services for older old adults. This involves creating a seamless connection between healthcare and elder care, fostering cooperative agreements among medical institutions, and developing expedited emergency treatment pathways that link community health providers with hospitals specifically for older old adults.

Moreover, there is a strong focus on enhancing the professionalism, standardization, and technological advancement of elder care services. This approach will include the establishment of skilled caregiving teams, initiatives to attract talented professionals to the elder care field, and the development of smart elder care facilities, particularly emphasizing innovations in healthcare robotics.

These initiatives represent a significant advancement in addressing the challenges confronted by older old adults in Beijing, ensuring they receive the essential care and support needed.