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Tue, 27 Oct 2026

Tue, 27 Oct 2026 China's families are now supporting more old people than kids

The latest figures mark a major milestone as Beijing grapples with an ageing population.

* For the first time, families in China support more elderly people than children.
* According to official data, the ratio of dependent elderly people to working-age population rose to 23% last year, surpassing the figure for children (22%).
* The shift marks a significant milestone as China grapples with an aging population that could have implications for families, pensions, and healthcare spending.
* There are now over 223 million people in China aged 65 and above, accounting for nearly 16% of the country's total population.
* Birth rates in China have been falling for years, contributing to the aging population.
* Factors such as rapid urbanization, one-child policy, changing gender roles, rising living costs, and higher education levels have contributed to the shrinking workforce.
* The Chinese government is preparing for a growing proportion of elderly people by urging younger generations to get married and have more children.
* Financial help for pensioners has become a significant part of Chinese government spending, with over 53 million elderly people receiving senior citizen allowances and subsidies.