Core Viewpoint - The aging population in China is rapidly increasing, with 310 million people aged 60 and above by the end of 2024, accounting for 22% of the total population. This growth leads to a diversified and professional demand for elder care services, yet the industry faces challenges such as a shortage of skilled personnel and low social recognition of the profession [1]. Group 1: Industry Challenges - The elder care service sector is experiencing a significant gap in talent, with issues including insufficient quantity, lack of professional skills, low social recognition, and inadequate job attractiveness [1]. - There is a pressing need for policies, social participation, and public support to enhance the respect and recognition of elder care as a profession [1]. Group 2: Initiatives and Programs - The "Yiqi Guardian" public welfare initiative, launched in 2022 by the Taikang Yicai Public Welfare Foundation in collaboration with the Ministry of Civil Affairs, aims to discover and showcase outstanding elder care talents [2]. - The "Yiqi Guardian" initiative will upgrade its projects in 2025, launching the "Yicai Elder Care Talent" project to strengthen the quality of elder care personnel through collective efforts [2]. Group 3: Talent Development and Training - The Taikang Yicai Foundation has focused on supporting the development of elder care talent since its establishment, implementing various programs such as "Yicai Qianjia" and "Yicai Xingguang" to empower institutions and enhance the professional image of elder care [2][11]. - The foundation has developed a systematic training framework, offering over 150 online courses and training 149,000 elder care personnel by December 2023 [11]. Group 4: Social Recognition and Professional Growth - The initiative aims to change societal perceptions of elder care work, highlighting the professional and emotional aspects of the job, which require high levels of responsibility and empathy [6][17]. - The emergence of new roles, such as "intentional guardianship," reflects the evolving nature of elder care services, providing opportunities for specialized and diversified career paths [14]. Group 5: Future Outlook - Continuous policy support and the involvement of charitable organizations are crucial for the growth of the elder care talent pool, fostering a culture that values and empowers elder care professionals [17]. - The "Yicai Elder Care Talent" project signifies a new phase in the collaborative effort to enhance the professional status and social recognition of elder care workers, contributing to the overall development of the elder care industry [19].