The city of Taicang in Jiangsu province has launched an extensive campaign to help its elderly residents enjoy a happy life.

Since 2014, the government has set aside more than 20 million yuan ($3.27 million) each year to promote home-care services around the city. The services have benefited 5,323 senior residents.

Jiang Wenya, a 69-year-old with a mental disability, lives with her brother and is one of the beneficiaries. With the financial support from the local government, Jiang is able to enjoy a 36-hour home-care service each month.

"I used to think housekeepers were only available for the wealthy. I have never imagined that low-income families like us can enjoy the housekeeper service," said Jiang's brother.

Under the project, home care is provided by homemaking personnel and includes services like providing meals, washing clothes, house cleaning and chatting.

The government has also built daytime care centers for the elderly. The centers include rest rooms, a dining room, multifunctional activity room and medical room. They also offer lunches to seniors at a rate of 6 yuan per meal.

In the future, the government will focus on expanding the home care service to rural areas to benefit more people.

Edited by Jacob Hooson