China is facing a rapidly growing aging population, and the country is increasing efforts to meet the needs of the elderly. One new service gaining attention is assistance with bathing, particularly for those with disabilities. In Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, CGTN reporter Hu Chao spoke with a team that provides this service.
Zhao Baozhu has been assisting elderly people with bathing for nearly three years in Taiyuan.
His team uses special equipment like inflatable bathtubs and mobile water heaters to ensure a comfortable experience.
ZHAO BAOZHU Bathing Assistant "I love my job. I empathize with the elderly people who are immobile. The job requires love, responsibilities and patience."
The bather lives in a nursing home.
He's paralyzed in both legs and one arm due to a stroke.
Helping him to bath is quite difficult for the nursing home under limited conditions.
XING JIANG Head of Xiangtang Nursing Home "The immobile elderly people need the bathing service even more. Bathing is a basic need for them. But for now, it's still very hard for us to help them bath. So, this bathing service really helps us."
The bathing service lasts about an hour, and Zhao emphasizes the importance of communication to adjust based on each person's needs.
ZHAO BAOZHU Bathing Assistant "I feel happy as long as they feel satisfied. Like the man we just served, he smiled happily. So, we feel happy as well."
Zhao's team of seven provides home-based bathing services, charging between 200 to 400 yuan (about $30–50) per session. The demand for their services is growing, with up to four orders in a single day.
In late September, China's Ministry of Civil Affairs announced plans to expand at-home services like bathing assistance, as most elderly people prefer to remain at home.
HU CHAO Taiyuan, Shanxi Province "The aging population comes with both challenges and opportunities. Next, the Ministry will implement the national strategy and promote high-quality development of the services. Hu Chao, CGTN, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province."
