Core Viewpoint - The recent release of the "Standardization Development Plan for the Elderly Industry (2025-2030)" by the China Aging Industry Association highlights the importance of standardization in elderly products, but raises concerns about the practical usability of these products for the elderly [1][2]. Group 1: Importance of Standardization - Standardization is crucial to ensure safety in elderly products, as the absence of unified safety standards can lead to dangerous situations, such as with electric wheelchairs [1]. - There is a risk that some companies may misuse standardization as a marketing tool, labeling ordinary household appliances as "elderly-specific" without meaningful modifications [1][2]. Group 2: Effective Standards - True elderly standards should be based on scientific considerations of physiological functions and detailed observations of living scenarios, as exemplified by Japan's requirement for a minimum color contrast of 30% between floors and walls in nursing homes [2]. - Standards should not only focus on technical parameters but also consider the practical usability for the elderly, such as the complexity of elevator buttons that may deter elderly users from using them independently [2]. Group 3: User Experience and Feedback - The essence of the silver economy is rooted in familial care, which cannot be standardized; thus, establishing a system for "elderly experience officers" could enhance service quality [3]. - Real-life feedback from elderly users is essential for improving standards, as demonstrated by a nursing home in Hangzhou that allows residents to rate caregivers [3]. Group 4: Market Demand and Product Development - The silver economy requires a deeper understanding of elderly needs, suggesting that product development should focus on user-friendly designs rather than merely meeting compliance standards [3]. - The industry should prioritize practical usability over mere adherence to national standards, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that products are genuinely usable by the elderly [3].

Core Insights - The report "2025 Insights into the Silver Economy Consumer Group" highlights the growth of China's silver economy, focusing on individuals aged 55 and above, with a current population of 280 million aged 60 and above, accounting for 22% of the total population, driving market expansion [1][17][18] - The government has introduced policies to promote the development of the silver economy, including the "Opinions on Developing the Silver Economy to Enhance the Well-being of the Elderly," which supports various sectors such as elderly care services, age-friendly products, and health industries [1][8][12] Consumer Behavior - The silver demographic prioritizes health-conscious diets, favoring fresh, low-salt, low-oil, low-sugar, and easily digestible foods, with a significant demand for functional foods aimed at gastrointestinal health and nutritional supplementation [1][32][36] - Travel preferences include short-distance trips, natural landscapes, and ancient towns, with self-driving and wellness travel favored by younger seniors [1][2] - Shopping habits emphasize health safety and practicality, with increasing penetration of online channels, where short videos and social platforms serve as key consumption entry points [1][2] Aging Care Models - Over 90% of the elderly prefer home-based care, with community home care and the 90-7-3 model (90% home, 7% community, 3% institutional) being mainstream, while younger and older seniors show high concern for medical care and age-friendly facilities in institutional settings [2][12] - Different age groups exhibit distinct needs: younger seniors focus on travel and health management, middle-aged seniors prioritize safety and medical services, while older seniors emphasize dignified care and convenient medical access [2][12] Market Potential - The silver economy is projected to reach a market size of 8 trillion yuan, reflecting the vast potential of this demographic as a core consumer force across various sectors, including health, leisure, and education [17][20] - The industry chain encompasses upstream (biological and textile materials), midstream (smart healthcare and rehabilitation aids), and downstream (consumption, cultural tourism, and elderly care services) [21][22] Policy Support - National and local governments are implementing policies to support the silver economy, addressing the need for improved quality in elderly services and products, and fostering a more comprehensive elderly care system [12][13][14]