In observance of Senior Citizens Day tomorrow in Taiwan, Premier Jiang Yi-huah today visited the Evergreen Garden center for the elderly in Chiayi City. In addition to watching the center's abacus and musical instrument classes, the premier also donated NT$50,000 (US$1,700) to the seniors and joined them in practicing taichi and singing songs.
The premier said Taiwan's 65-and-older segment currently exceeded 2.65 million people, or 11.37 percent of the entire population. To prepare for a rapidly aging society, the government is pushing for the establishment of 120 day care centers for demented and disabled seniors by year's end. There are currently 1,800 community care facilities across Taiwan that can work with these centers to deliver meals during the day and check up on seniors in person or by phone. The premier hopes every neighborhood in Taiwan will be able to provide this kind of care and compassion for the elderly.
Premier Jiang also commended Evergreen Garden for its wide range services, including classes for seniors, a daytime care center and elderly residential units. He said people in their old age can lead healthy, happy and dignified lives by interacting with adults and young children, urging family members not to leave their elders alone in nursing homes.
Jiang also said seniors deserve the appreciation of all citizens for contributions made to the country over their lifetimes. He hopes this culture of respect for the elderly will be passed on to future generations and that Taiwan will remain a senior-friendly society.
Accompanying the premier on today's visit was Executive Yuan Secretary-General Chen Wei-ren; Research, Development and Evaluation Commission Minister Sung Yu-hsieh, and Deputy Minister of Health and Welfare Tseng Chung-ming.