MOHW tackles Taiwan’s aging society challenges

2015/06/29

A white paper preparing Taiwan for challenges stemming from its rapidly aging population is under consideration by the Ministry of Health and Welfare. The document is expected to set out a road map for transforming the country into a friendlier, happier and healthier place for senior citizens going forward. It will also contain measures for extending good health years and reducing disabled numbers for the demographic. According to the MOHW, senior citizens comprised 12 percent of the population in 2014. This figure is forecast to hit 14 percent in 2018 and 20 percent in 2025, making Taiwan a super-aged country. Premier Mao Chi-kuo said the white paper is necessary given the need for all segments of society to join in addressing this very real change to the country’s industrial development and lifestyles. “Efforts will be made to provide the elderly with adequate provisions, reduce the burden on caretakers and spur development of sectors catering to the specific needs of this population group.” While those aged 65 and above are often perceived as care receivers, they are also important consumers and can become valuable producers and service providers, Mao said. “Government policy must take this into account and provide opportunities for seniors to exercise their potential, including extending the compulsory retirement age,” he said, adding that adopting a warmer approach to the elderly should be a key consideration in the country’s universal design standards. “It is important to bear in mind that other age groups will be affected by the demographic shift as well. The MOHW is tasked with fully communicating related issues and enhancing public awareness in this regard.” Echoing the premier’s remarks, MOHW Minister Chiang Been-huang said seniors are not a burden on society. “With more flexible work arrangements, they can still contribute a great deal.” As part of this approach, the Senior Workforce Development Service Center was set up by the Ministry of Labor in October 2014 to encourage employment for the elderly and increase their labor participation rate. Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=231960&ctNode=413)