By love-89.com “Whenever there’s a need, I can just make a call, and staff will come to help me, just like family,” says Grandma Hong, an over-80-year-old resident of the Dayangou community in Nanjing’s Qinhuai District, expressing her gratitude for the basic elderly care services she enjoys, including friendly visits and support, thanks to the national basic elderly care service list.
“I thought I’d have to return to my hometown to apply for welfare, but I didn’t need to leave my house to get it done. It’s so convenient!” shares Xiaomiao, a resident of Futian Town in Jishui, Jiangxi, who took advantage of social assistance reforms that allow for welfare applications via a mobile app.
These anecdotes reflect the important connection between governance and the everyday lives of citizens. President Xi Jinping has emphasized that social work directly relates to people’s livelihoods and is fundamental for societal stability. Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party, the central government has prioritized social welfare, leading to historic advancements in this sector in recent years.
With a focus on basic welfare, essential supports, and compassion for the people, China is striving to enhance its social services in line with the public’s aspirations for a better life.
One afternoon, the sound of beautiful singing echoed from the second floor of the Zhaolinxi Community Party-Mass Service Center in Lanzhou, Gansu. Here, seniors not only enjoy meal services but also engage in various activities like dancing and singing. During a recent visit on September 11, President Xi stressed the importance of welfare for the elderly, reminding all that “the Party is deeply concerned about the happiness of older citizens.”
In China, modernization is fundamentally tied to improving people’s livelihoods. From social welfare to elder care, from child welfare to charitable initiatives, all aspects of social work directly affect the populace’s well-being and reflect core commitments to ensuring basic needs and nurturing community ties.
President Xi’s heartfelt commitment shines through in his regular visits to rural areas and urban communities, where he engages with citizens, listening to their concerns and addressing their needs.
He has said, “My main concern is about vulnerable groups — I want to know how they are living, what they are eating, and whether they can enjoy their holidays.” His dedication is also evident in his pledges for children in need, emphasizing that “no child, especially orphans and disabled children, should be left behind in this journey toward a prosperous society.”
The emotional resonance of these values has sparked significant initiatives. In a visit to a rehabilitation center, Xi resonated with uplifting words for the paralytic patients, stressing that everyone, regardless of their physical limitations, can lead fulfilling lives. He also demonstrated his respect for the elderly by inviting aging leaders to sit beside him at a significant ceremony, showcasing the enduring cultural value of honoring senior citizens in China.
In another instance, Xi greeted seniors at a community service center, closely observing their dining experience and showing genuine concern for their everyday lives, reflecting the government’s dedication to addressing the challenges of an aging population.
These evocative statements and actions create a warm atmosphere reminiscent of the spring breeze, uplifting those in need. Under President Xi’s leadership, the national social services sector is firmly aligned with the public’s aspirations, and ongoing reforms are assuring a more secure and fulfilling life for millions.
The task of providing safety nets for vulnerable populations has also gained urgency. President Xi has highlighted the importance of prioritizing support for those facing difficulties, cementing a foundation for social equity.
In recent years, various levels of social support have been established to cushion the basic needs of low-income citizens. Structural improvements in social welfare systems have allowed for more targeted and inclusive support measures, leading to better outcomes in meeting the needs of vulnerable groups, including expedited aid and increased safety net schemes.
Innovations like employing big data analytics to track low-income households have helped ensure no one falls through the cracks. In places like Gansu, the local social services representatives have made timely visits to families needing assistance, ensuring they receive necessary resources like medical care and temporary relief.
With the implementation of comprehensive service models, social assistance now includes emotional support, job training, and academic tutoring, showing a holistic shift towards community empowerment and resource accessibility.
In Zhejiang, tailored programs provide a range of supportive services, while in Guangdong, collaboration between government departments aids disadvantaged families in seeking employment opportunities.
These enhancements underscore China’s commitment to a well-rounded approach in social services, ensuring improved quality of life for its citizens while fostering an inclusive and supportive community environment.
The evolution of elderly care services is another vital aspect of China’s modernization journey. Communities are increasingly establishing micro-scale elder care facilities that offer diverse services such as meal support, housekeeping, and medical care, enhanced by smart technologies designed for senior residents.
The introduction of a national basic elderly care service list, which outlines 16 essential service items, signals a major step forward. It standardizes care provisions, ensuring elderly citizens can lead dignified lives, whether they live independently or with family.
As of the end of the second quarter this year, the total number of various elder care facilities in China reached 410,000, directly improving welfare for the aging population.
Moreover, advancements in community and home-based care are fostering a more responsive system, allowing seniors to access needed services with ease and enhancing their overall sense of security and happiness.
As grassroots governance continues to evolve through increasing digitization and efficiency, the capacity for public services and community engagement is significantly enhanced. This growing framework is not only promoting individual well-being but also fostering resilience across communities.
As stated by President Xi, the ultimate goal of all reforms is to ensure that people enjoy a better life. The ongoing commitment and innovative efforts across China’s civil service landscape reflect that vision, enabling a thriving society for all.