Taiwan’s super-aged society presents growing challenges

台灣超高齡社會挑戰日益嚴峻

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Genesis Social Welfare Foundation said Thursday that Taiwan has entered a super-aged society, with an estimated 900,000 people requiring long-term care.

To meet rising demand for eldercare, the foundation expanded its services last year. Among its home visits, 30% involved severely bedridden elderly individuals and 20% involved basic elder care, per CNA.

One case involved an 80-year-old woman surnamed Chen (陳) in New Taipei’s Sanchong District, who is bedridden due to an amputation and a stroke. Her care is provided entirely by her 84-year-old husband, who suffers from diabetes.

The foundation provided nurses and caregivers to assist the couple. Thanks to her husband’s care, Mrs. Chen’s condition is stable, and she can receive the foundation’s in-bed bathing service.

Founded in 1986, the foundation has established 17 nursing homes for destitute people and those in a vegetative state. Three branches operate across Taiwan, serving nearly 18,000 families, 85% of whom are low- to lower-middle-income households.

The group noted that Tuesday is World Humanitarian Day, designated by the United Nations, and called for greater attention to the spirit and safety of humanitarian workers.

Caregiving is a long-term burden that can place immense pressure on families and professionals, the foundation said. It urged society to strengthen the social safety net to safeguard the dignity and safety of both those receiving and providing care.