Shandong district explores innovative approach to neighborhood elderly care

Zhenzhu Huayuan neighborhood in Jinan's Laiwu district established a neighborhood-based elderly care center in 2017. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

In Jinan's Laiwu district, the Zhenzhu Huayuan neighborhood is revolutionizing elderly care services through a comprehensive elderly care center that combines entertainment with educational activities.

The neighborhood has made significant efforts to ensure that its 280 elderly residents – accounting for 10 percent – can access convenient and personalized services right at their doorstep.

Partnering with the Laiwu District Elderly University and Home Elderly Care Service Center, the neighborhood has set up a teaching branch within the area. Here, seniors can learn skills like calligraphy, painting, and pastry making, and access services including dining areas, chess rooms, massage facilities, and fitness rooms.

Furthermore, the neighborhood has hired excellent teachers to conduct classes, offering a diverse range of courses from Monday to Friday. Since inception, 1,580 students have enrolled in its 14 art classes, 10 calligraphy classes, eight music classes, two photography classes, and a paper-cutting class.

In the future, the Zhenzhu Huayuan neighborhood will continue to explore new paths in grassroots governance, further enhance the one-stop elderly care service system, and continuously improve service quality.