In China, a new profession is quietly transforming the lives of the elderly. Meet Zhong Jinxuan, an age-inclusive renovation assessor who is helping seniors stay in their own homes longer by making them safer and more comfortable.
On a typical day, Zhong visits the home of 82-year-old Zhao Bo, who lives alone and has hearing and speech impairments as well as limited mobility. With a measuring tape and a toolkit of samples, Zhong assesses Zhao’s living space, from the bathroom and bedroom to the kitchen and electrical systems.
“The bathroom needs handrails for safety, and the electrical outlets are not conveniently positioned,” Zhong explains. He measures the spaces and develops a customized renovation plan to make Zhao’s home more accessible. After the renovations are completed, Zhao expresses his gratitude with a thumbs-up, appreciating the new level of comfort and security.
An Urgent Need for Age-Inclusive Homes
China is experiencing a demographic shift. As of 2023, nearly 297 million people in China are aged 60 or above, making up over 21% of the population. With a growing elderly population, the need for home modifications that cater to seniors is becoming increasingly important.
Many homes, especially those built before 2000, were not designed with the needs of elderly residents in mind. A 2022 survey by the China Consumers Association found that nearly 60% of elderly people live in homes built more than 20 years ago. This highlights the urgent demand for professionals like Zhong who specialize in age-inclusive renovations.
Transforming Lives One Home at a Time
Age-inclusive renovation assessors are trained to evaluate and redesign living spaces to make them safer and more comfortable for seniors. This includes installing bathroom handrails, adjusting the height of electrical outlets and switches, and removing barriers that hinder mobility.
“Our goal is to make sure elderly people can move around safely, cook, bathe, and live without obstacles in their homes,” says Zhong. Beyond physical changes, Zhong often provides much-needed emotional support by spending time talking with elderly residents who may feel isolated.
A Growing Industry with Government Support
The Chinese government has recognized the importance of supporting the aging population. The “14th Five-Year Plan” aims to renovate two million homes for disabled elderly people, among other initiatives to improve facilities and services for seniors. In addition, the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development has introduced guidelines for age-inclusive home renovations, outlining key areas for improvement.
Industry experts predict that by 2050, China’s elderly population could reach 480 million, significantly increasing the consumption potential of this group. The age-inclusive renovation industry is poised for significant growth, offering opportunities to improve the quality of life for millions of seniors.
According to Meng Lilian, chief specialist at the Sichuan Tianfu Health Industry Research Institute, the industry should focus not only on physical renovations but also on enhancing services for the elderly. This includes home-based care services like meal delivery, health checkups, and bathing assistance, complementing the work of renovation professionals.
As China adapts to an aging society, professionals like Zhong are making a meaningful impact, one home at a time. Their work ensures that seniors can continue to live independently, safely, and comfortably in the homes they love.
Reference(s):
A new profession in China helps the elderly live at home for longer
cgtn.com
