Summary of Key Points
This news article focuses on the issue of caring for elderly people with dementia. Using the case study of a new book by Professor Tang Yong from Shenzhen University, it highlights several challenges in China: the large number of dementia patients who are hidden due to societal stigmatization, the emotional and economic pressures faced by families providing care, the varying difficulties depending on their economic backgrounds, and the unique challenges faced by young cities (such as Shenzhen) with an aging population. The article also mentions the gradual improvement in policy support and public awareness, calling for the establishment of "dementia-friendly communities."
1. Dementia Patients: A Large Population, Hidden from View
The number of dementia patients in China is significant—about 15 million in 2022, with 10 million suffering from Alzheimer's disease; this is expected to rise to 17 million by 2025. Among those over 80 years old, one in every four women and one in every six men will be affected. However, many of these patients remain hidden within their communities because of family members' fear of stigmatization. They avoid letting others know about the patient's unusual behaviors (such as getting lost or becoming agitated) out of concern for how they may be perceived.
The symptoms of dementia are far more than just forgetfulness: some patients may not recognize their own daughters but remember their old dogs, mistake themselves in mirrors for their mothers, or walk around at night with flashlights (thinking they are still soldiers). In severe cases, there can be language decline, loss of sensation to hot and cold, reversal of day and night, and even hallucinations, requiring 24-hour care.
2. Family Care: A Turbulent Journey, Both Financially and Emotionally
Caring for a dementia patient is a long-term struggle for family members. They must go through stages of depression and anxiety before eventually accepting the reality, facing immense psychological stress. For example, Mr. Wang in Shenzhen moved his mother with dementia into public rental housing and monitors her through surveillance while at work, leaving him with little free time, feeling as if he is "trapped in a life without options." Financial pressures are also a major concern; hiring caregivers and nannies can cost up to 15,000 yuan per month, plus medical expenses and food, which can total over 25,000 yuan per month for two patients.
What family members lack most is information on what to do next—where to find hospitals or care facilities, and how to deal with the patient's aggressive behavior. However, there are also heartwarming stories of family members who become experts in caring through love and perseverance.
3. Different Care Models, Each with Its Own Challenges
Different families choose different care methods, but all face difficulties:
- Home Care: Commonly chosen by financially struggling families, it can be extremely exhausting. For instance, Mr. Wang needs respite services, but some day care centers require a Shenzhen household registration, and others do not accept patients who may wander away, making it difficult to find suitable options.
- Institutional Care: Public nursing homes charge significantly more for local residents compared to non-residents (with the difference being several thousand yuan for locals and over ten thousand yuan for non-residents). Private nursing homes are expensive, but Yuan Yuan finally found relief by choosing a private facility recommended by a friend.
- Support from Multiple Children: Families with financial resources contribute both money and time, but this can also be exhausting over the long term. For example, the Li Kai family in Huizhou, although financially stable, finds the daily care and isolated lifestyle overwhelming, leading their daughter-in-law to consider living together with relatives and neighbors for mutual support.
4. Aging in Young Cities: Shenzhen's Challenges and Policy Progress
Shenzhen has an average age of 32.5 years, but the number of elderly people moving there with their children is increasing. These "elderly migrants" help with childcare and household chores but often lose contact with their original social networks, which can accelerate cognitive decline. The issue of household registration was once a major barrier to medical care; it was not until 2022 that the policy allowing direct cross-provincial medical reimbursement was implemented that some of these problems were resolved.
Shenzhen's elderly care model is based on the "9073" ratio (90% home care, 7% community care, 3% institutional care), but the actual utilization rate of institutional beds is only around 1%. Many beds are vacant due to a mismatch between supply and demand (for example, there may be a lack of suitable services or the costs being too high). However, Professor Tang Yong believes that in 10 years, when the post-60s generation retires, they will be more financially capable and less likely to have second children, potentially leading to an increase in institutional care demand.
5. Hope for the Future: The Rise of the Silver Economy and Dementia-Friendly Communities
More and more people are paying attention to dementia care. Insurance companies and real estate firms are entering the silver economy sector, and the government is promoting related services. Professor Tang Yong's main goal is to create "dementia-friendly communities" where elderly people with dementia feel comfortable going out without being misunderstood. For example, neighbors would help if a patient gets lost instead of avoiding them.
In summary, caring for dementia patients is a complex issue, but with improved policies and increased public awareness, more support will be available in the future to alleviate the burden on both patients and their families.
This news article brings the serious topic of dementia care to life through real stories and data, highlighting the struggles faced by families and the potential for social progress. If you have elderly relatives or want to learn more about this issue, Professor Tang Yong's new book, as well as related readings and films, are excellent resources.