Chinese community-dwelling elders' needs: promoting ageing in place

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Sociology

Background:

• Global population ageing necessitates effective strategies for older adults to remain in their homes.
• Limited understanding exists regarding older individuals' perceived needs for services and support to facilitate ageing in place.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the needs of older adults who are ageing in place.
• To provide evidence-based insights for policies and strategies that support ageing in place.

Main Methods:

• A survey of 568 elderly individuals in Hangzhou, China, conducted between 2009 and 2011.
• Utilized a modified questionnaire with established validity in both the USA and China.

Main Results:

• High satisfaction reported with community living (88.9%) and quality of life (97.2%).
• Increasing age correlated with health issues and difficulties accessing healthcare.
• House repairs, housework, social services, and health promotion were identified as key needs, varying by age group.

Conclusions:

• While many older adults live healthy lives at home, they require enhanced health insurance for long-term conditions and accessible home care.
• Current community and regional capacities are insufficient to fully support the needs of older Chinese adults ageing in place.
• Future nursing and health policies must incorporate assessed needs and client perspectives to effectively enhance the self-sufficiency of community-dwelling older adults.