Nursing home profitability on rise

Sympathetic design

Lingxi Nursing Home began operating in October 2014. Only eight elderly patrons were admitted at the beginning.

"Society is still biased against those living in nursing homes," Guo said. "People think the elderly are not being well cared for by their children and family. So few are willing to live there."

His nursing home has one seven-floor and one eight-floor buildings, with a total capacity of 980 beds. Each floor is equipped with an activity room for the elderly to play games and chat. The second floor of each building has a theater that can accommodate 300 people.

"When designing the building, special attention was paid to being anti-slip and barrier-free," Guo said. "The elderly can get to the canteen without leaving the building."

He also encountered difficulties in recruiting staff.

"We want to recruit those who are willing to take care of the elderly and who can patiently listen to their needs. It is difficult because not many people are willing to spend time listening," he said.

Training is provided so that employees meet the institution's needs.