Answering a call to care

Wubao, or Five Guarantees, is a government welfare program to ensure that eligible individuals in rural areas receive the five basics: food, clothing, housing, medical care and burial.

The government has established such facilities across the country. And, local neighborhood committees help those who fulfill requirements to apply for a bed to the civil affairs bureau. The eligibility refers to elders, the physically challenged and those younger than 16 years old, who are not able to work to fully support themselves, have no income source or have no children or other people with a legal responsibility for support and care.

With 28 staff members, the facility in Chengguan currently takes care of 48 residents, with an average age of 68.The oldest resident is 91. The government offers a monthly subsidy of 1,183 yuan per person to cover their basic life expenses, including pocket money of 400 yuan to each.

The State Council Information Office recently released a white paper to mark the peaceful liberation of Xizang, revealing that the average life expectancy in the region has increased from 35.5 years in 1951 to 71.1 years in 2019.

"Our service aim is to treat the aged as our parents, relatives and friends. It's all about ensuring they have a decent and dignified later life," says Sonam Tseten, 42, director of the Chengguan welfare institution.

"Our staff members are familiar with the residents' personal information, including physical conditions. They have different hobbies, such as singing, and they like to have colorful recreational activities."