Researchers study challenges of population ageing – using China as an example
An international network of researchers has investigated how China is addressing the challenges posed by its ageing population. The results have been compiled in an article that provides an overview of success factors and proposals for future measures that can also guide other countries facing the same challenge. The work has been coordinated by researchers from the Universities of Gothenburg and Oslo, as well as Fudan University in Shanghai.
The article, published in the journal Nature Aging, provides a comprehensive overview of how China is addressing challenges related to its ageing population. The researchers compile current challenges and potential policy solutions, particularly in light of important scientific breakthroughs, changing conditions in healthcare, and socio-economic and political factors. The overview also summarises and draws conclusions from elderly care models in several Nordic and East Asian countries.
We show how science, healthcare and social systems can work together to enable people to live not only longer, but also healthier and more meaningful lives
– Our article builds bridges between molecular biology, health policy and social care in a common framework for understanding population ageing. We show how science, healthcare and social systems can work together to enable people to live not only longer, but also healthier and more meaningful lives, says Jing Wu, Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Gothenburg.
Jing Wu is one of the authors of the overview, which compiles contributions from over 30 international experts working in various fields of research.
– This interdisciplinary perspective is crucial in order to address one of the most profound social changes of our time, namely the global challenge of an ageing population, says Jing Wu.
Lessons to take back to Sweden
China has the world's largest ageing population, but the insights provided by researchers can also be valuable for other countries facing the same future, such as Sweden.
Both China and Sweden face significant demographic challenges with rapidly ageing populations, which requires swift and innovative efforts in elderly care
– Both China and Sweden face significant demographic challenges with rapidly ageing populations, which requires swift and innovative efforts in elderly care, says Jing Wu.
China's experiences demonstrate the value of integrating healthcare, social care and technology, but also of testing new care models in practice at an early stage.
– Sweden can draw inspiration from China's speed in developing and disseminating community-based and integrated care solutions, while China can learn from Sweden's strong focus on equality, accessibility and a robust welfare system. Together, they offer complementary insights for building inclusive and sustainable models for healthy and dignified ageing.
Digital publication: Adapting health, economic, and social policies to address population aging in China
Corresponding authors:
Professor Evandro Fei Fang (University of Oslo, member of the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters)
Dr Yuan Fang (University of Oslo)
Professor Huachun Zou (Fudan University, Shanghai)
Associate Professor Jing Wu (University of Gothenburg)
The four researchers served as joint corresponding authors, with interdisciplinary contributions from over 30 international experts..