China

Working closely with partners, we promote financial security, healthcare, support and dignity for older people, especially in rural areas of Western China. 


Our three-year project across 16 villages in the north-western Shaanxi Province tackles the poverty and health issues often faced by older people.

As part of this project, we set up older people's associations to reduce isolation and build support networks. These are now thriving and are a vital way of bringing older people and the community together.

The difference we made in 2010-2011

  • We have worked alongside 50 older people's associations to strengthen agricultural livelihoods, promote healthy aging and encourage community-based care for vulnerable and isolated older people in Shaanxi, Sichuan and Hunan provinces.
  • We have joined with the China National Committee on Ageing to help local governments plan for the impact of rapid aging in China.
  • We have provided livelihood assets or small loans to 1,300 poor older people in rural villages in Shaanxi and Sichuan through community-based organisations.

The difference we made in recent years

  • We have provided psychological support in Sichuan province where many older people are still affected by the 2008 earthquake.
  • We have worked with the China National Committee on Ageing to help local governments plan for the impact of rapid ageing.
  • We have provided small grants, social activities and health advice through our Sponsor A Grandparent programmes in Sichuan and Hunan provinces.

What next?

  • In partnership with the Shaanxi Provincial Committee on Aging, we will continue to support the agricultural livelihoods and health awareness of hundreds of older people and their families in poor villages.
  • We will share our experience and models for community-based associations, first with 18 new villages in Shaanxi and then with other provinces throughout China.
  • We will look for new ways for communities to ensure frail and isolated older people routinely receive care and companionship from their own neighbours.

Our partners

The China National Committee on Ageing, Shaanxi, Sichuan and Hunan Provincial Committees on Ageing, Sichuan University

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