[Photo by Wang Yue for chinadaily.com.cn]

Huzhou in East china's Zhejiang province is taking steps to make nursing services available to more elderly people in the next four years to meet the needs of its aging population and improve their quality of life.

According to a plan recently unveiled by the city for the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25) period, it will explore the establishment of a social pension and medical security system for the elderly in both urban and rural areas.

The city will also strengthen the management of chronic diseases among the elderly and establish health records for those aged over 65. 

In addition, the city plans to build an additional 10 medical institutions to meet the housing needs of 30 percent of completely disabled elderly people. More private companies will also be encouraged to play a role in the construction of nursing homes, according to the plan.

The local government will ensure that all newly built and rebuilt facilities in the city meet accessibility requirements for the elderly and achieve its goal of building 50 accessible communities at the municipal level. 

During the 14th Five-Year Plan period, the city plans to launch 150 accessible public transport vehicles as well.

In addition, more educational, cultural and sports facilities for the elderly will be built in Huzhou.