Young support givers shine in Shandong's eldercare sector

A heartwarming scene unfolded on July 3 in the exercise room of Dong'e County Elderly Care Center, where 21-year-old Zhang Jiahao, a caregiver in the center, led a group of senior residents in gentle exercise routines.

With music playing in the background at the center – situated in Dong'e County, administered by Liaocheng city in East China's Shandong province – the intergenerational interaction was filled with joy and harmony.

Senior residents have a gentle workout in the Dong'e County Elderly Care Center. [Photo by Hou Changming for chinadaily.com.cn]

Contrary to the popular perception that the job of being a support giver is usually reserved for older folks, young people like Zhang are choosing this line of work in Dong'e county.

Zhang's intimate bond and caring approach to the elderly stem from the love and care he received from his own grandparents.

"They treat me like their own grandson and it brings me great joy to care for them as if they were my own family. Although it's tiring, it holds great meaning for me," Zhang said.

Zhang studied nursing at the Liaocheng Vocational and Technical College in Liaocheng city.

With the knowledge gained from his education and hands-on experience, Zhang gently and efficiently cares for the residents at the elderly care center while maintaining a harmonious relationship with them.

Currently, the center has 80 caregivers who have an average age of only 36 years.

With the dedication of passionate and well-trained caregivers like Zhang – and the comprehensive efforts of the local government – the county is widely said to be leading the way in providing high-quality elderly care services and nurturing a new generation of professionals dedicated to the well-being of its seniors. (Edited by Jin Yongxue)