Swiss air quality company IQAir sees growing opportunity in China's senior care market

Swiss air quality technology company IQAir sees growing demand from China's senior population, as air quality emerges as a critical health concern for them.

Crystal Han, vice-president of sales and marketing at IQAir China, said in an interview with China Daily that "China's senior care sector represents a vital growth market for clean air solutions. Whether seniors purchase systems independently or through family support, we're committed to delivering customized protection across all care scenarios – from community living and medical-integrated facilities to premium retirement communities."

Han made the comments as IQAir attended an elderly care service expo, which ended in Beijing on Friday.

As China's aging population accelerates, air quality has emerged as a critical health concern for seniors. Microscopic pollutants including PM2.5, viruses, bacteria, and allergens pose heightened risks to elderly individuals with vulnerable respiratory and cardiovascular systems, often exacerbating chronic conditions, the company said.

During the expo, IQAir outlined adaptive strategies to address different needs, including changing air quality requirements evolving with seniors' health conditions, seasonal challenges, such as dynamic pollution patterns across climate variations, and environmental factors, such as location-specific contaminant profiles in living spaces.

The company's exhibit showcased advanced purification technologies designed to create comprehensive "clean air networks" throughout senior living environments. This marks IQAir's strategic expansion into China's senior care market, aligning with national initiatives.

As of the end of last year, China's population of individuals aged 60 and above reached 310 million, with 220 million aged 65 and older, representing 22 percent and 15.6 percent of the total population, respectively, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics.

"Collaboration will be key to scaling impact," Han said. "We invite senior care providers to partner with us in building healthier breathing environments because every senior deserves access to air that protects rather than harms."