China Uses Artificial Intelligence in Elderly Care

China Accelerates Use of AI and Big Data in Elderly Care and Social Services to Boost Economic Growth

China announced on Sunday plans to accelerate the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data in elderly care and social services, aiming to leverage new technologies to drive economic growth. Minister of Civil Affairs, Lu Xiyuan, stated during the annual “Two Sessions” political gathering that the government will focus on enhancing the development and application of new technologies like AI and big data in social assistance, elderly care services, and services for people with disabilities.

Enhancing Accessibility and Expanding Services

Lu Xiyuan highlighted that this initiative will help make services “more accessible, convenient, and standardized,” ultimately improving the quality of life for citizens. He added that these technologies would expand and improve services to meet the needs of the most vulnerable groups in society.

Demographic Challenges in China

This announcement comes at a time when China faces significant demographic challenges, with the population declining for the third consecutive year in 2024. The country already has over 310 million people aged 60 or older, making the development of effective elderly care systems an urgent priority.

AI Enhancing Social Services

In this context, local governments in China have already begun implementing AI models, such as “DeepSeek,” in their social services. “DeepSeek,” operated by a private company, launched its latest version of its chatbot program in January. This low-cost AI model outperforms many Western competitors, despite U.S. restrictions on advanced AI chip sales to Chinese companies.

Government Support for the Tech Sector

Regarding the development of China’s AI sector, President Xi Jinping emphasized government support during a rare seminar for private companies last month, which included several heads of AI and tech companies. Xi stressed the importance of encouraging these companies to showcase their creative talents in the technology field.

Sources:

• Minister of Civil Affairs Lu Xiyuan’s remarks during the “Two Sessions”
• News reports on AI models in China
• President Xi Jinping’s statements on supporting private companies