Challenges, opportunities seen in China's aging population

Nursing homes in China are beset by a myriad problems. A fire at a care home in Henan Province, central China, in May claimed the lives of 38 of its elderly residents, causing many to question the standards of elderly-care centers.

Care homes are also struggling with staff shortages. By the end of 2015the government predicts that there will be 30 beds for every 1,000 seniors. While there are 290,000 nurses that specialize in geriatric nursing spread out across the whole country. Even if every nurse cared for three disabled seniors, there would still be 10 million seniors with no caregiver.

The central government is championing home-based care and services for those that do not need the support of special facilities.

In 2013, the State Council, China's cabinet, issued a guideline calling for the incorporation of home-based care, community support and nursing resources.

Luan Bingmai, 73, is one of more than 3,000 seniors in Tianjin to benefit from this government initiative. After her health took a turn for the worst a few years ago, she found herself unable to complete her daily chores. So she signed up for in-home help, and now gets meals delivered to her doorstep by the staff of a care home.

In addition, the elderly population of Tianjin can receive health care, medication and consultation, all in the comfort of their own homes.

According to the government guideline, home-based care should be a fundamental part of the elderly care system.

Nursing facilities and care homes should be the last resort, said Gao Yunxia from China Philanthropy Research Institute. Government-run nursing homes should give priority to the poor, the disabled and those of advanced age, she added.