Core Insights - The aging population in China is projected to reach 310 million by the end of 2024, accounting for 22% of the total population, indicating a shift into a moderately aging society [1] - The demand for silver economy services is expected to exceed 30 trillion yuan by 2035, highlighting the growing economic potential of this demographic [1] - There is a significant mismatch between the rising demand for silver economy services and the current supply, necessitating structural reforms to align supply with demand [2] Demand Characteristics - The demand for silver economy services is evolving towards quality, stratification, and integration, with older adults seeking more than basic living support [2] - Quality demand reflects a focus on health management, cultural entertainment, and smart elderly care, while stratification indicates varying needs based on income, health, education, and cultural factors [2] - The trend towards integrated services combines elderly care, medical services, and mental health support, requiring cross-sector collaboration [2] Supply Challenges - The supply of silver economy services is lagging behind demand, leading to issues such as homogenization of products and services, resulting in "involution" competition [2] - Some capital is focused on short-term gains, risking fraudulent activities that undermine trust in the silver economy [2] - There is an urgent need to optimize the supply of products and services to enhance market confidence and protect the elderly [2] Policy Recommendations - Establish a layered supply structure for the silver economy, with clear guidelines for entry and exit, service standards, and supportive policies [3] - Encourage state-owned enterprises to provide foundational services while private enterprises focus on niche markets such as elderly products and smart health solutions [3] - Social organizations can play a supplementary role in providing non-profit services like psychological support and community assistance [3] Technological Advancements - Promote the adaptation of digital technologies for the elderly, addressing current shortcomings in usability and functionality of smart devices [4] - Utilize big data to analyze the health and consumption preferences of the elderly, enabling personalized service offerings [4] - Enhance the efficiency of supply through the integration of IoT and AI technologies to better meet the evolving demands of the elderly [4] Institutional Framework - Implement comprehensive risk prevention measures across funding, operations, and regulation to safeguard the silver economy [4] - Establish a dedicated fund supervision system to prevent fraudulent activities and ensure service quality through regular assessments [4] - Strengthen inter-departmental cooperation to combat misinformation and illegal fundraising, while enhancing industry oversight [4] Conclusion - Advancing the supply-side structural reform of the silver economy requires a collaborative effort between the market and government, integrating social welfare and the elderly care industry [5] - By adhering to policy guidance, market dynamics, technological empowerment, and institutional support, the silver economy can become a new growth driver, ensuring that the elderly population enjoys the benefits of economic development [6]