A professional team renovates a house to make it more senior-friendly. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

As the aging population in Qidong continues to grow, the city has prioritized home adaptation services for seniors aged 70 to 80 who prefer aging in place. Professional service teams are invited to design customized senior-friendly home renovation plans, focusing on families with financial difficulties or elderly members with disabilities.

Since 2021, Qidong has invested 9.12 million yuan ($1.25 million) to implement senior-friendly home adaptations for 3,040 elderly residents. These efforts aim to address safety issues in home environments and improve the quality of home-based elderly care. To date, 1,540 households have undergone renovations. 

In Dongjiao village, Huilong town, the home of 92-year-old Wu Yafang, has been transformed into a warm and senior-friendly space. Her 20-square-meter room now features handrails, anti-collision strips, bathing aids, and non-slip mats, ensuring her safety and comfort.

Wu, who suffers from multiple health conditions, including heart disease and rheumatism, and has mobility issues, was among the first in her village to benefit from the program. Her hard mattress was replaced with a soft, ergonomic bed, her bedroom lighting upgraded to smart lights, and a bedside table installed doubles as a handrail and a place for essentials.

"After the renovations, life has become safer, and my quality of life has improved," Wu said with gratitude.