In preparation for the issues and challenges of an aged society, the government is drafting a white paper that will serve as a blueprint of comprehensive policies for Taiwan's rapidly graying population, Premier Mao Chi-kuo said at today's Cabinet meeting.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW), responsible for compiling the document, said white paper's vision is to create a healthy, happy, active and friendly environment for the elderly. This can be achieved by extending the number of healthy years for seniors, improving the nation's long-term care capabilities, developing a sustainable long-term care system, and promoting active aging.
The white paper also outlines strategies for promoting public-private cooperation on diverse services for seniors. Meanwhile, young people and corporations will be encouraged to engage in care services or to develop innovative products and businesses geared toward seniors. Measures for institutional, community and home care services will be also strengthened. Hence, the white paper is intended to satisfy the needs of different generations, across various fields and at all levels.
After hearing the MOHW's report, the premier said the government should join forces with the private sector and work toward four goals: extending healthy years for senior citizens and reducing the number disabled; creating support for the elderly; reducing the care burden on younger family members; and creating an environment and opportunities for senior-oriented industries.
According to estimates, the proportion of Taiwan's population aged 65 and over will escalate from 14 percent in 2018 to 20 percent by 2025. Premier Mao said this demographic shift will bring profound changes to the industrial structure and society's way of life.
In addition, seniors are often regarded as a group that requires care, but in fact they are capable of providing services and can play both consumer and producer roles, Mao said. Hence, it is important to give seniors a sense of personal value and help them reach their potential so that an extended life becomes more meaningful. He asked the MOHW to work out further details and strategies in this regard.
The premier added that it is not enough to simply address the needs of the elderly; the nonelderly population also needs to adjust to this population shift and adapt to the changes that come with a graying population. He asked the MOHW to consider the possible issues for the nonelderly population and to incorporate appropriate policies into the white paper.