China recently announced its plans to expedite the utilization of artificial intelligence and big data in elderly and social care services in a bid to boost economic growth amidst an aging population. This decision is a response to the country’s declining birth rate and workforce. Civil Affairs Minister Lu Zhiyuan mentioned during a news conference at China’s annual Two Sessions political gathering that the focus will be on developing and implementing new technologies like big data and artificial intelligence to enhance social assistance, elderly care, and services for the disabled. The goal is to make these services more accessible and standardized. With China’s population aging and over 310 million people aged 60 and above, there is a pressing need to leverage technology for future economic growth. Local governments are already embracing AI technologies like DeepSeek’s model to improve their services. Despite restrictions on advanced AI chip sales to Chinese firms, DeepSeek’s cost-effective model has surpassed many Western competitors. Chinese President Xi Jinping has shown support for the sector by hosting a symposium for private companies, including AI and technology executives, where he encouraged them to demonstrate their capabilities. Notably, DeepSeek’s founder, Liang Wenfeng, was in attendance along with representatives from prominent technology firms like Tencent, Huawei, and Xiaomi.
China to use AI in elder care as population ages
