The question of how to deal with the many types of practical problems related to an aged population is a new subject facing Chinese architects and planners, as it has arisen due to current demographic and developmental conditions. These problems are especially acute in the renovation of older urban districts as well as in the development and construction of new residential areas. Based upon a recent survey in a new residential district of Shanghai, this article addresses the problems of the elderly with regard to three basic concerns: (1) the decision of the types of dwelling units in the development and construction of new residential areas; (2) the potential for construction of apartment houses specially designed for the elderly; and (3) the possible means of improving the residential environment of the new communities.