Shandong province has recently released comprehensive guidelines to foster elderly-friendly communities across the province. The guideline sets ambitious goals, aiming to create 300 national model elderly-friendly communities by 2025 and achieve full coverage of elderly-friendly communities by 2035.

To optimize the living environment for the elderly, the guidelines emphasize the need for elderly-friendly housing modifications. They encourage local governments to provide subsidies for elderly households to make their homes more accessible. By the end of 2025, at least 30,000 households are expected to undergo such modifications. Additionally, the guidelines call for improvements to public spaces, including installing elevators and ramps in residential buildings.

To enhance healthcare and elderly care services, the guidelines aim to improve primary healthcare services for the elderly. They also encourage professional elderly care institutions to extend their services to homes and communities. By the end of 2026, 60 percent of nursing homes are expected to provide home-based services.

Recognizing the importance of social engagement, the guidelines promote greater participation among the elderly in community activities. This includes providing elderly-friendly fitness facilities and organizing cultural and sports activities for the elderly. They also encourage older adults to participate in community governance and volunteer work.

Furthermore, the guidelines emphasize the importance of digital inclusion for the elderly, aiming to bridge the digital divide through initiatives such as senior universities and community schools.