What shall we do with old people? The question of ageing in China

Abstract

This article discusses the ageing of Chinese population and the problems raised by the fact that, in this country, ageing and development are not being reached with the same speed. It examines attitudes toward old age in a country where respect and care for the elderly are considered essential according to a Confucian moral code which is the backbone of the values of traditional Chinese society. Thus, in the past, the care for the elderly was considered a family responsibility. At present, as a result of very strict family planning measures which resulted in smaller families, as well as the new economic environment, are creating situations which force the government to take measures in order to insure the welfare of old people, a task that is being addressed but is still difficult to achieve.