Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the complexity and diversity within the elderly population in China, challenging the common narratives of aging as a homogeneous experience and highlighting the need for a nuanced understanding of their needs and behaviors [3][9][20]. Demographic Changes - Global population structures are undergoing significant changes, with median ages rising in both developed and emerging economies. By 2075, the median age in developed economies is projected to reach 47 years, while in emerging economies, it will be around 40 years [5]. - Life expectancy has increased globally, with the average rising from 62 years to 75 years over the past 50 years. In developed economies, it has risen from 72 years to 82 years, and in emerging economies, from 58 years to 73 years [7]. Aging in China - By the end of 2024, the elderly population (aged 60 and above) in China is expected to reach 310 million, accounting for 22% of the total population. The proportion of those aged 65 and above will be 15.6%, indicating that China has entered a deep aging society [9]. - The speed of aging in China is unprecedented, with the transition to a deep aging society occurring in just 21 years, compared to much longer periods in other countries [9]. Definition of Aging - Aging is a natural biological process experienced by nearly all animals. The concept of "elderly" has evolved from being a symbol of wisdom and authority in primitive and agricultural societies to a defined life stage in modern welfare states [15][16]. Internal Diversity of the Elderly Population - The elderly population in China is characterized by significant internal diversity, with varying experiences and backgrounds leading to different consumption behaviors and needs. This diversity is more pronounced than in previous or subsequent generations [18][20]. - Historical events and socio-economic changes have created distinct cohorts within the elderly population, leading to varying levels of education, health, and economic stability [21][24]. Consumption Patterns - The elderly population holds substantial wealth, with approximately 20% of global wealth owned by those aged 75 and above. In China, the total wealth of individuals aged 60 and above reached 78.4 trillion yuan in 2023 [28]. - The elderly exhibit a high savings rate of 60%, indicating a strong tendency towards precautionary savings. Their consumption patterns are influenced by their income, health status, and life experiences [29][31]. Market Opportunities - The elderly consumer market in China is vast and complex, with significant opportunities for businesses that can navigate its diversity. However, it is not a monolithic market, and understanding the nuances of different consumer segments is crucial for success [31][76]. - The article highlights the need for tailored products and services that address the specific needs of various subgroups within the elderly population, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach [76]. Digital Engagement - There is a significant digital divide among the elderly, with about 52% of those aged 60 and above being internet users. However, many remain excluded from the digital world due to various barriers, including lack of skills and access [78][80]. - The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated digital adoption among the elderly, with many being forced to learn how to use smartphones and online services for essential tasks [84].

Core Insights - The article discusses the profound and rapid aging of the population in China, highlighting the complexities and internal diversities within the elderly demographic, which is often overlooked by society and market research [4][10][18]. Group 1: Demographic Changes - The median age in developed economies has increased from 30 to 43 years over the past 50 years, with projections indicating it will reach 47 years by 2075. Emerging economies have seen a rise from 19 to 30 years [5]. - Global life expectancy has risen from 62 to 75 years in the last 50 years, with developed economies seeing an increase from 72 to 82 years [8]. - By the end of 2024, China's population aged 60 and above is expected to reach 310 million, accounting for 22% of the total population, marking the country’s entry into a deeply aging society [10]. Group 2: Aging Process and Definitions - Aging is a natural biological process experienced by nearly all animals, characterized by various physiological changes [12]. - The definition of "elderly" has evolved over time, with the World Health Organization defining elderly individuals as those aged 60 and above, while in developed countries, the age is often set at 65 [14]. Group 3: Internal Diversity of the Elderly Population - The elderly population in China is marked by significant internal diversity, with varying experiences and backgrounds leading to different consumption behaviors and needs [16][18]. - Historical events, such as the Great Chinese Famine and the Cultural Revolution, have created distinct generational experiences that influence the current elderly population's values and consumption patterns [20][21]. Group 4: Economic Disparities - There is a stark disparity in income among retirees in China, with pensions for civil servants being 28 times higher than those for rural residents [24]. - The elderly population's wealth is substantial, with the total wealth of individuals aged 60 and above in China reaching 78.4 trillion yuan, averaging 264,000 yuan per person [25]. Group 5: Consumption Patterns - The elderly consumer market is complex and multifaceted, with a significant portion of the population exhibiting low consumption levels despite the overall market potential [28][69]. - Many elderly individuals prioritize essential spending and exhibit high price sensitivity, often focusing on tangible benefits rather than abstract services [60][63]. Group 6: Digital Engagement - Approximately 52% of elderly individuals in China are internet users, indicating a significant digital divide where many remain disconnected from online resources [71]. - The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated digital engagement among the elderly, with many being forced to learn to use smartphones for essential services [78]. Group 7: Market Opportunities - The elderly market presents a vast opportunity for businesses, but it requires a nuanced understanding of the diverse needs and preferences within this demographic [28][69]. - Companies must focus on tailored services and products that address the specific challenges faced by different segments of the elderly population, rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach [69].

Core Viewpoint - The China Securities Elderly Consumption Theme Index has shown a decline of 4.38% over the past month, while it has increased by 1.14% over the last three months and decreased by 2.70% year-to-date [1] Group 1: Index Performance - The China Securities Elderly Consumption Theme Index is currently at 1560.86 points, with a base date of December 31, 2009, set at 1000.0 points [1] - The index's top ten holdings include companies such as Kaiying Network (6.62%), 37 Interactive Entertainment (5.37%), and New China Life Insurance (5.2%) [1] Group 2: Market Composition - The index's holdings are primarily listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (62.02%) and the Shanghai Stock Exchange (37.98%) [1] - The industry composition of the index includes Communication Services (41.10%), Consumer Discretionary (27.49%), and Healthcare (13.49%) [2] Group 3: Index Adjustment Mechanism - The index samples are adjusted biannually, with adjustments occurring on the next trading day after the second Friday of June and December [2] - Weight factors are generally fixed until the next scheduled adjustment, with special circumstances allowing for temporary adjustments [2]