Core Insights - Jiangsu Province has released its 2025 Aging Development Report, marking the 17th consecutive year of publication, detailing the aging population status and development achievements across the province and its 13 cities [1] Population Aging Status - In 2024, Jiangsu's population aging shows characteristics such as zero growth in the resident population, a slight adjustment in the increase of the elderly population, a small rebound in birth rates, and an average life expectancy exceeding 80 years [1] - The province added 860,000 elderly individuals in 2024, with the total population aged 60 and above reaching 21.75 million, accounting for 25.5% of the total population, which is 3.5 percentage points higher than the national average [1] - The population aged 65 and above reached 15.94 million, representing 18.7% of the total, exceeding the national average by 3.1 percentage points [1] Longevity and Health - Jiangsu has entered a "Longevity Era," with 3.25 million residents aged 80 and above, making up 15.29% of the elderly population [2] - The number of centenarians reached 8,811, an increase of 128 from the previous year, with cities like Nantong and Xuzhou having over 1,000 centenarians each [2] - The province's average life expectancy has surpassed 80 years, achieving the "14th Five-Year Plan" goal ahead of schedule, reflecting improvements in the healthcare system and residents' health levels [2] Elderly Population Characteristics - By the end of 2024, the low-age elderly population (60-64 years) reached 5.81 million, an increase of 650,000 from the previous year, accounting for 75.6% of the elderly population growth [2] - The proportion of elderly individuals with a high school education or above has risen to 15.87%, an increase of 4.5 percentage points over the past decade, indicating a significant improvement in the educational level of the elderly population [2] Government Initiatives and Economic Development - The provincial government emphasizes aging work and integrates positive aging concepts into economic and social development, promoting the construction of an elderly-friendly society [3] - Jiangsu is focusing on developing the silver economy, particularly in elderly product manufacturing, elderly care services, and anti-aging industries, with 19 units applying to establish silver economy characteristic parks [3] - The province has seen the emergence of 59 smart health and elderly care products and services included in the national promotion directory, ranking among the top in the country [3] Social Security and Support Systems - Jiangsu has achieved full coverage of long-term care insurance across its 13 cities, with over 63.44 million insured individuals, the largest scale in the country [4] - The minimum standard for basic pensions for urban residents has increased from 208 yuan to 228 yuan, marking the 14th consecutive increase [4] - The province has implemented a nursing care title system, promoting the professionalization and vocational training of elderly care services [4]

Group 1 - The report highlights that Jiangsu Province is experiencing a significant demographic shift, with a stable population and an increase in the elderly population, indicating a trend towards aging society [1][2] - In 2024, the elderly population aged 60 and above reached 21.75 million, accounting for 25.5% of the total population, which is 3.5 percentage points higher than the national average [1] - The province has achieved a per capita life expectancy exceeding 80 years, reflecting improvements in the healthcare system and overall resident health [2] Group 2 - Jiangsu has entered a "longevity era," with 3.25 million residents aged 80 and above, representing 15.29% of the elderly population, and 8,811 centenarians, an increase of 128 from the previous year [2] - The educational level of the elderly population has improved, with 15.87% having a high school education or above, indicating a potential "second demographic dividend" [2] - The provincial government is integrating active aging concepts into economic and social development, promoting the development of an elderly-friendly society [3] Group 3 - Jiangsu has established a comprehensive social security system for the elderly, with over 63.44 million people covered by long-term care insurance, the largest scale in the country [4] - The basic pension for urban residents has been increased from 208 yuan to 228 yuan, marking the 14th consecutive increase [4] - The province has initiated a professional title system for elderly care, enhancing the professionalization of the elderly service workforce [4]

Core Insights - The birth population in Jiangsu is projected to slightly increase to 426,000 in 2024, marking a rise of 17,000 from 2023, the first increase since 2016 [1] - The report highlights various aspects of aging population development in Jiangsu, including the establishment of aging regulations, social security for the elderly, and the development of elderly-friendly services [1] Population Aging Trends - Jiangsu's permanent population is experiencing zero growth for the first time, with a slight adjustment in the increase of elderly population and a small rise in birth numbers [1] - The average life expectancy in Jiangsu has surpassed 80 years, indicating improvements in health and longevity among the elderly [1] Elderly Demographics - The number of centenarians in Jiangsu reached 8,811 in 2024, an increase of 128 from the previous year, reflecting a growing population of high-age elderly individuals [1] - Approximately 15.87% of the elderly population in Jiangsu has a high school education or above, suggesting a potential "second demographic dividend" that can contribute to economic and social development [1]

Core Viewpoint - The trend of hiring retired employees is gaining momentum among companies, driven by cost-saving measures and the increasing availability of older workers in the labor market [1][3][9]. Group 1: Cost Benefits of Hiring Retired Employees - Companies can save significantly on social insurance costs by hiring retired employees, as they are exempt from paying social insurance for these workers [4][6]. - For example, hiring a retired employee with a monthly salary of 5000 yuan can save a company nearly 12,000 yuan annually for every ten retired employees hired [6][7]. - The new policies from the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security provide additional financial incentives for companies that hire retired workers, further reducing their costs [7][8]. Group 2: Demographic Trends and Labor Market Dynamics - China is experiencing a significant demographic shift, with the population aged 60 and above expected to reach 310 million by the end of 2024, accounting for 22% of the total population [9][10]. - The retirement wave is projected to see around 20 million people retire annually from 2022 to 2031, increasing the demand for employment opportunities for older individuals [10][13]. - The aging population presents a unique opportunity for companies to tap into a skilled and experienced workforce, as many older individuals wish to remain active in the labor market [11][14]. Group 3: Characteristics and Advantages of "Silver Employees" - Older employees, often referred to as "silver employees," tend to have a longer average tenure compared to younger workers, which can lead to greater stability in the workforce [15][16]. - They prioritize job satisfaction and social engagement over career advancement, making them valuable assets in service-oriented roles [17]. - Many older workers are filling roles in sectors that younger workers may avoid, such as cleaning and maintenance, thus addressing labor shortages in these areas [18][19]. Group 4: Flexible Employment Opportunities - Companies are increasingly offering flexible work arrangements to retired employees, allowing them to choose their working hours based on health and personal preferences [19][20]. - This flexibility not only meets the market demand for adaptable labor but also helps alleviate job vacancies in various sectors [20][21]. - The narrative that age limits employment opportunities is being challenged, as many older individuals find new beginnings in the workforce at 60 and beyond [22].