Core Viewpoint - China is experiencing the fastest population aging process globally, with the elderly population expected to exceed 300 million by 2024, accounting for approximately 22% of the total population, and a significant increase in chronic diseases among the elderly poses challenges to the healthcare system and social security [4][7][33]. Population Aging and Health Challenges - By the end of 2019, the elderly population (aged 60 and above) in China reached 254 million, with an annual growth rate of 3.7%, significantly higher than the global average [4]. - The elderly population is projected to double in the next 25 years, reaching 402 million by 2040, meaning one in three Chinese individuals will be elderly [4]. - Approximately 75% of elderly individuals suffer from chronic diseases, with an average of 2.3 chronic conditions per person, particularly prevalent in urban areas [6][16]. Disease Burden and Trends - The prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases has surged, with cardiovascular diseases being the leading cause of death among the elderly, accounting for nearly 48.98% of deaths in rural areas and 47.35% in urban areas [19][21]. - The number of Alzheimer's disease patients in China surpassed 13 million in 2019, representing 25.5% of the global total, with a standardized prevalence rate of 788.3 per 100,000 [29][30]. Healthcare System and Resource Allocation - The current healthcare system faces challenges in early detection and diagnosis of elderly diseases, with inadequate screening mechanisms and low equipment availability in primary healthcare institutions [36][37]. - There is a significant shortage of geriatric specialists, with only 59,000 doctors for a population of 300 million elderly individuals, highlighting the disparity in healthcare resources [37]. Digitalization and Elderly Care - The shift towards digital healthcare poses challenges for the elderly, many of whom struggle with using technology for medical services, leading to difficulties in accessing healthcare [45][48]. - The psychological health of "empty nest" elderly individuals is a growing concern, as isolation can lead to depression and anxiety [49]. Future Directions - There is an urgent need to establish an integrated prevention, diagnosis, and rehabilitation system for elderly diseases to address the health challenges posed by an aging population [33]. - The focus is on building a resilient healthcare system that balances resources between urban and rural areas, ensuring equitable access to elderly health services [54].

Core Viewpoint - China is experiencing one of the fastest population aging processes globally, with the elderly population expected to exceed 300 million by 2024, accounting for approximately 22% of the total population, and projected to reach 402 million by 2040 [3][6]. Group 1: Aging Population Statistics - By the end of 2019, the elderly population (aged 60 and above) in China reached 254 million, with an annual growth rate of 3.7%, significantly higher than the global average [3][6]. - The proportion of individuals aged 65 and above in China reached 14.2% in 2021, doubling in just 21 years, while developed countries typically take around 50 years to achieve the same [9][12]. - By 2050, the population aged 65 and above is expected to reach 395 million, surpassing the current population of the United States [9]. Group 2: Health Challenges - Approximately 75% of elderly individuals suffer from chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and hypertension, with an average of 2.3 chronic conditions per elderly person [6][11]. - The prevalence of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias reached 17 million in 2021, with osteoporosis patients nearing 100 million [12][23]. - Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death among both urban and rural residents, accounting for nearly 49% of deaths in rural areas and 47% in urban areas [14][16]. Group 3: Healthcare System Challenges - There is a significant shortage of specialized geriatric healthcare professionals, with only 59,000 geriatricians available for a population of 300 million elderly individuals [29]. - The detection and diagnosis rates for elderly diseases are insufficient, with many potential diseases going undetected due to a lack of early screening mechanisms [29]. - Rural areas face more severe chronic disease issues due to limited medical resources and lower rates of regular health check-ups [29]. Group 4: Need for Integrated Health Systems - There is an urgent need to establish an integrated prevention, diagnosis, and rehabilitation system for elderly diseases to address the challenges posed by an aging population [26][28]. - The construction of a resilient health system is essential to ensure equitable access to healthcare services across urban and rural areas, addressing the disparities in healthcare resource distribution [37].