Core Viewpoint - Jiangsu province is actively addressing the challenges of an aging population by enhancing elderly care services and promoting a high-quality development model for elderly welfare, which is essential for social progress and the well-being of its citizens [1][9] Group 1: Aging Population Statistics and Policies - Jiangsu has a significant aging population, with 25.5% of its residents aged 60 and above, surpassing the national average by 3.5 percentage points [1] - The province has established four key systems to improve elderly care: policy framework, service guarantees, supervision management, and social participation [1] Group 2: Community Engagement and Volunteerism - Community initiatives, such as the "New Well Community Canteen," facilitate direct communication between community leaders and elderly residents, addressing their needs effectively [2] - Over 656,000 elderly individuals have participated in volunteer activities, contributing to community service and enhancing social cohesion [2] Group 3: Educational Opportunities for the Elderly - The establishment of "doorstep elderly universities" has increased access to education for seniors, with a participation rate of 25% among the elderly population [3] - Jiangsu has exceeded its target for the number of elderly universities, with at least four in each district [3] Group 4: Aging-Friendly Infrastructure and Services - Jiangsu is implementing aging-friendly modifications in homes and communities, with a focus on enhancing the living environment for seniors [4] - The province has initiated a program to replace old consumer goods with new, age-appropriate products, with a budget of 300 million yuan allocated for home modifications [4] Group 5: Sustainable Development of Elderly Care Institutions - Jiangsu is promoting a multi-layered approach to elderly care services, ensuring that institutions are not solely reliant on government support but also explore market-driven solutions [5][6] - The province has prioritized land allocation for elderly care facilities, with 56 plots designated for this purpose last year [6] Group 6: Coordination and Policy Implementation - The establishment of a high-level provincial aging committee reflects a commitment to coordinated efforts in addressing aging issues, with 32 member units involved [7] - Jiangsu has developed a "15-minute elderly service circle," ensuring that a significant portion of the elderly population has access to essential services [7] Group 7: Quality of Care and Social Security - Over 70% of nursing beds in Jiangsu are now dedicated to elderly care, with significant investments in specialized care for cognitive impairments [8] - The province has improved its pension system, with a focus on expanding coverage and increasing benefits for retirees [8] Group 8: Future Directions - As the "14th Five-Year Plan" concludes, Jiangsu aims to enhance its aging services framework, transitioning from mere "elderly care" to a more enriching "enjoying old age" experience [9]

Core Insights - The article highlights the proactive and technology-driven approach of Nanjing's Gulou District in addressing the needs of the elderly population, particularly through community-based services and smart technology [2][4]. Group 1: Community Services - The Gulou District has established a comprehensive elderly care service system, including a smart water meter alert platform that monitors the water usage of over 4,900 households with elderly residents [2][4]. - Community workers respond quickly to alerts from the smart system, as demonstrated by a case where a senior citizen was saved after a fall due to the system's notification [2][3]. - Regular visits and phone calls are made to the 840 independent and empty-nest elderly residents in the community to ensure their well-being and happiness [4]. Group 2: Technology Integration - The smart water meter platform acts as a "watchful eye," providing 24/7 monitoring and alerts for potential emergencies among the elderly [2]. - The integration of technology in elderly care includes the installation of smart smoke detectors, water meters, and emergency call devices for over 82,000 vulnerable elderly individuals [4]. - The district's approach combines technology with personal care, ensuring that elderly residents receive timely assistance and support [4]. Group 3: Service Quality and Community Engagement - The community has introduced professional elderly care institutions to enhance service quality, offering activities such as smartphone training and anti-fraud lectures to bridge the digital divide for seniors [3]. - The elderly population in the district is characterized by high education and income levels, leading to increased expectations for quality of life and services [3]. - The Nanjing Civil Affairs Bureau is expanding the "Happy Elderly" care system, with 126 street-level elderly service complexes and 1,347 community service stations established [4].