Nursing Homes in China: Now and the Future

China is facing growing challenges from the increasing elderly population, the number of elderly who require care is growing, “4-2-1” family structure and “empty nesters” exacerbate the burden of care. The existing nursing homes are far from meeting the demand. However, two extremes exit: overcrowding and low occupancy because of cost, facilities and services. There is a severe shortage and instability for caregiver. The majority of caregivers have the low education, they receive little training in elder care. No matter how difficult it is reform is essential and urgent, The next 25 years will be key for Chinese government preparing to deal with China's aging society, and that strategies must be developed to improve laws and regulations for care elderly, and encourage private and foreign investors to participate in the nursing home business. Establishing a complete set of laws and regulations, exploring the most appropriate care model, improving care service, professional training and recruiting volunteers are challenges to China in future.