21社论丨坚持需求导向，让科技更好赋能银发经济

Core Viewpoint - The Ministry of Civil Affairs and eight other departments have jointly issued measures to cultivate the elderly care service industry and promote the silver economy, focusing on technological innovation to upgrade service models rather than just infrastructure and subsidies [1][2]. Group 1: Policy Measures - The new measures emphasize the importance of technology-driven upgrades in elderly care services, encouraging research and development in elderly care technology and products [1][2]. - The policy aims to foster a new ecosystem of elderly care services that integrates technology, creating new business models and expanding domestic consumption [2][3]. Group 2: Market Potential - By 2035, the population aged 60 and above in China is expected to exceed 400 million, accounting for over 30% of the total population, indicating a significant consumer demand potential [1]. - The shift in consumption behavior among the elderly, from basic life security to a pursuit of quality living, presents opportunities for high-quality, personalized elderly care services and products [1][2]. Group 3: Technological Integration - The policy supports the development of smart elderly care devices and rehabilitation robots, promoting their integration with elderly care institutions to enhance the application of new technologies [2][3]. - The construction of smart elderly care communities and integrated home care platforms is encouraged, utilizing big data, cloud computing, and AI to improve service levels [3]. Group 4: Challenges and Solutions - Despite the promising outlook for the silver economy, challenges such as limited product supply and service experience need to be addressed, particularly the adaptation of technology for the elderly [4]. - To tackle the issue of technology adaptation, there is a need for demand-driven and problem-oriented approaches, including the establishment of standards for elderly-friendly technology [4].