Overwhelming Solitude of China’s Graying Society

China has to capitalize on the narrow window of opportunity in the next decade to establish a comprehensive elder nursing system for its anticipated 400 million citizens aged 60 and above by 2035. With 90 percent of seniors preferring to continue living at home, the nation is grappling with addressing this demand. Efforts have been made since 2022 to engage medical practitioners in providing home-based care for seniors, yet few have been incentivized to take on this additional responsibility. The introduction of elder long-term care insurance is imminent, particularly as the pension replacement rate falls 30 percent below World Bank recommendations. However, challenges persist, as evidenced by the financial struggles of nursing home complexes and community canteens serving senior urban dwellers. Addressing these issues is essential to ensuring a dignified quality of life for the senior population.