Title: The contribution of the elderly population to society: China's perspectives and experiences.

POPLINE Document Number: 201442

Author(s):

Wu C

Source citation:

In: Economic and social implications of population aging: proceedings of the International Symposium on Population Structure and Development, Tokyo, 10-12 September 1987. New York, New York, United Nations, 1988. :418-30. (ST/ESA/SER.R/85)

Abstract:

As a result of the demographic transition, both the absolute and relative sizes of the elderly population are increasing, and as a result of a prolonged life span, elderly people will live many years after their retirement. It is more and more accepted that the elderly will continue their participation in social development to lighten their increasing burden on society. Although respect for the elderly is part of the Chinese tradition, the idea of giving the elderly a full role to play in social activities was rarely discussed in the past. Since the agricultural population accounts for 80% of the total population and all citizens enjoy the right to work, the rate of employment in China, including the rate among the elderly, is very high. Although China's present population is not an old one, the size of the elderly population is large, the largest among all the countries of the world. China's economy is still less developed. Both pension and medical expenditures form a heavy load on the state and on enterprises. If the elderly continue to participate in the production of goods and services for society, thus reducing the number of sole consumers and increasing the number of producers, that will be important for economic progress in China. Old people differ in their abilities to contribute due to differences in 1) health conditions, 2) sex and age, 3) employment before retirement, 4) education, 5) occupations, 6) economic status, 7) marital and housing status, 8) personality and individual preferences, and 9) participation in various social associations. The elderly still play an important role in agricultural production. The urban elderly make contributions to society using mainly their professional knowledge, experience, and skill. This is easier for mental than for physical workers. The urban elderly make contributions mainly in the field of tertiary industry and the types of work they can engage in within their capacity. Old people write reminiscences, teach school, and translate and annotate ancient books. Some of them develop self-services among the elderly. Old people also take a large responsibility for housework. The promotion of the elderly's participation in social development is an integral part of China's efforts to improve the physical quality and scientific and literate levels of the population.

Keywords:

China
Demographic Aging
Population Dynamics
Population
Older Adults
Adults
Employment
Macroeconomic Factors
Social Development
Development Planning
Obstacles
Housework
Unemployment
Employment Status
Developing Countries
Asia, Eastern
Asia
Demographic Factors
Age Factors
Population Characteristics
Economic Factors
Organization and Administration
Microeconomic Factors
Socioeconomic Status
Socioeconomic Factors