Challenges, opportunities seen in China's aging population

BEIJING - When looking for a balance between independence and health care in later life, China's older generation must navigate an under-developed, overwhelmed sector.

Many Chinese believe it is the responsibility of children to care for their aging parents, and often grandparents, too. In some cases, those that put their elderly relatives into nursing homes are looked down on for shirking their filial responsibility.

At the end of 2014, there were 212 million Chinese, or 15.5 percent of the population, aged 60 or above. This is expected to increase by around 10 million every year.

Vice Minister of Civil Affairs Zou Ming said China is getting old before getting rich and the care industry is under prepared. With a rapidly aging population and many people leaving their hometowns in search of work, suitable elderly care options must be found.

There is, however, a silver-haired lining as both the government and the private sector seek to develop viable solutions.