A Care Needs Assessment of Elderlies in Empty Nest Families: The Case of Wenzhou, China

Abstract

China’s rapid modernization has resulted to significant shifts in its social, cultural, and economic makeup. Specifically, its population is ageing that threatens their economic growth trajectories. Because the tradition of “raise children against ageing” still has influence in Chinese society, the country is facing the issue of covering elderly care costs while ensuring continued support for everyone. Given China’s economic growth, we explore on how the needs of the elderly in empty nest families be fulfilled, particularly in Wenzhou where elderly population in empty nest families has been increasing. While both government and families demonstrate the need to care for the elderly by providing both tangible and intangible needs, survey results revealed that most elderlies in empty nest families in Wenzhou are satisfied living at home in their old age as long as they can still attend to themselves and can still find ways to satisfy their needs despite their age. These needs include continuing education, health consultations and assistance, and outpatient treatment. Knowing the specific needs of the elderlies in empty nest families allows government and families to direct resources on their actual needs that matter most rather than on perceived needs.