Discussions of China tend to focus on size – a nation of over 1.3 billion people certainly deserves attention from business and investors worldwide. But, ‘total’ numbers reveal little about underlying social and market dynamics nor the opportunities they may present.
China is undergoing a ‘gray’ revolution. While discussions of aging and
innovation almost exclusively focus on the industrialized economies of
Europe, North America, Japan and the tiger economies of Asia, China may
be the venue to watch, and for innovators to engage in what’s new in
aging. A convergence of forces -- demographic transition, family
dynamics, and institutional readiness provide a promising market for
innovations in health delivery, eldercare and aging services.
Disruptive Demographics in the Middle Kingdom
Gray China – Asia
Studies Monitor data indicate that life expectancy in China was a
young 41 years old compared to 65 and older in Europe and North America
in 1950. China is closing the longevity gap. Today, life expectancy in
China has jumped to nearly 79 years compared to 82+ years in western
industrialized economies.
To read the full, original article click on this link: Disruptive Demographics: Global Aging, Technology & Innovation: China’s Gray Revolution: Why China May Invent the New Business of Aging
MIT AgeLab Research Assistant Victoria Lee conducted field research in China and translation of references in preparation of this article.
