Research Report:
Variance and Factors in Elderly-friendly Policies across Chinese Cities
Danyang Lu
October 10, 2025
Abstract
China's population is aging at an accelerating pace, creating a growing societal challenge that demands urgent attention in urban policy development targeted toward older adults. While numerous countries have developed comprehensive elderly-friendly frameworks, systematic cross-city comparisons of such initiatives in China remain limited. Drawing on the World Health Organization’s "Age-Friendly Cities" (AFC) model, this research examines policy initiatives in eight representative Chinese cities: Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Qingdao, Wuhan, Chongqing, Ha’erbin, and Urumqi. Policy documents were gathered from official municipal websites and assessed across eight AFC domains using manual qualitative coding, supported by generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) for validation. Findings reveal notable differences among these cities: Beijing and Chongqing excel in housing and community-based health services; Qingdao and Wuhan prioritize social engagement.; Iin contrast, smaller or less economically developed cities, such as Ha’erbin and Urumqi, show more limited policy coverage. These variations are largely influenced by differences in economic resources, demographic profiles, geographic conditions, and administrative capabilities. This study provides the first systematic, multi-city evaluation of elderly-friendly policies in China, offering valuable perspectives on promoting inclusive urban environments and demonstrating the potential of artificial intelligence in qualitative policy research.
Keywords: Elderly-friendly policies, WHO age-friendly cities, China, Policy review, GenAI-based qualitative analysis
1. Introduction
Chinese society is experiencing an increasingly rapid process of population aging process (see Figure 1). Evidence shows that the proportion of older adults within the total population has increased significantly in recent years (Luo et al., 2021). This demographic shift has brought a ranger of pressing challenges , most notably. In particular, there remains a serious shortage of elderly-friendly facilities and infrastructure capable of adequately meeting the needs of older adults.
Figure 1. The trend of aging in China from 2000 to 2050
Source: Pishu. (n.d.). Trend of aging. Pishu Multimedia Image Database. Retrieved October 4, 2025
As a result, the quality of life for older people has been declined in various respects. Limited access to supportive services and suitable environments often leads to social exclusion among older adults (Burholt et al., 2019), while insufficient safety measures and medical support further increase health risks. These issues highlight the urgency of developing environments that enable older adults to live with dignity, independence, and security (Gallagher et al., 2008).
In response to these challenges, the past decade has witnessed a growing awareness of the importance of elderly-friendly development. Many cities have introduced policies and regulations designed to promote age-friendly communities. These initiatives aim to improve public services, enhance infrastructure, and create safer, more inclusive environments that address the needs of aging populations. Together, these efforts represent important steps toward addressing the social and health challenges of rapid population aging.
By reviewing the elderly-friendly policy initiatives implemented in various countries, I discovered a gap. Previously, there were analyses of elderly-friendly policies in other countries, such as Australia, Ireland, and Romania (Kendig et al. 2014, McDonald et al. 2021, Ivan et al. 2020), yet no research has systematically examined such policies across cities in China. Moreover, while some scholars have explored the determinants of age-friendly policy development, these analyses remain limited in scope and comprehensiveness.
These gaps have greatly inspired my research motivation, as I aim to address questions that previous studies have not yet explored. Accordingly, this study seeks to answer a critical question: What factors influence variations in elderly-friendly policies across different Chinese cities?
However, an initial methodological challenge emerges: how can we assess whether a set of elderly-friendly policies is comprehensive and well-designed? Are there established evaluation criteria for such assessment? To address this, I reviewed international frameworks for age-friendly policies and identified three major evaluation systems—those proposed by the World Health Organization (WHO), the European Commission, and the smart city framework.
1.WHO’s standards: Housing, Social Participation, Respect and Social inclusion, Civic Participation and employment, Communication and information, Outdoor Space and Buildings, and Transportation (World Health Organization, 2007)
2.European standards: (a) raising awareness of older people as a resource to society (b) personal and community empowerment (c) access to the full range of services, and (d) supportive physical and social environments (Green, 2012)
3.Smart cities’ standards: people’s quality of life, sustainability and opportunities, accessibility, mobility (Ivan et al., 2020).
Ultimately, I chose to adopt the WHO evaluation framework, as it focuses more concretely on tangible entities and dimensions relevant to the urban environment. Its standards are therefore most appropriate for addressing my research question. In contrast, the European framework emphasizes conceptual dimensions, while the smart city standards focus on technological and operational aspects that do not align with the policy text analysis approach employed in this study.
I select eight major cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Qingdao, Wuhan, Chongqing, Ha’erbin, and Urumqi) across different regions in China to conduct case studies and comparative analyses on the city-level policies. Through documentary and comparative analysis of city-level policies, I extract and summarize key policy information, identify intercity differences, and evaluate each city’s policy set according to the eight WHO criteria.
The choice of policy text analysis is based on two key considerations. First, given the scale of the research, conducting extensive fieldwork would be impractical due to limited human resources, whereas text-based analysis can be carried out efficiently with fewer personnel. Second, as noted in my literature review, previous studies often overlooked certain factors influencing policy formulation. Through a detailed analysis of official policy documents collected from municipal government websites, I aim to identify a more comprehensive and diverse range of influencing factors shaping elderly-friendly policy development across Chinese cities.
2. Literature Review
2.1. Elderly-friendly Communities and Cities
As population aging becomes increasingly severe, more and more countries have recognized the importance of improving the quality of life for older adults and have begun to develop Age-Friendly Cities (AFCs). The ultimate goal of building an age-friendly city is to enhance the quality of life for the elderly. Specifically, an age-friendly city should have the following functions: the city's infrastructure needs to be able to meet the daily travel needs of the elderly; ensure their health and safety; strengthen their connection with society; and gradually increase their sense of social participation. (World Health Organization, 2007)
After WHO introduced the concept of "AFC". By conducting a search of various papers, i discovered three criteria for evaluating a good age-friendly city. I have extracted three evaluation criteria for an ideal elderly-friendly policy, which are from WHO, Europe, and intelligent elderly-friendly policies. WHO has proposed the following eight indicators: Housing, Social Participation, Respect and Social inclusion, Civic Participation and employment, Communication and information, Outdoor Space and Buildings, and Transportation. (World Health Organization, 2007). Europe has proposed the following four indicators: (a) raising awareness of older people as a resource to society (b) personal and community empowerment (c) access to the full range of services, and (d) supportive physical and social environments (Green, 2012). Smart cities have set the following several standards: people’s quality of life, sustainability and opportunities, accessibility, mobility (Ivan et al., 2020).
Previous researchers have used different frameworks to assess age-friendly policies. Understanding their methods and procedures helps inform my decision on which framework best suits this study.
Among the studies adopting the European assessment standards, one used a General Evaluation Questionnaire (GEQ) format, aligning the four priorities with four specific questions (Ivan et al., 2020). This survey was conducted among 77 cities. Supplementary data came from the annual report templates filled out by each city as network members on a regular basis. Among them, only a quarter of the cities responded to the GEQ and mentioned policies or strategies to raise awareness among the elderly, most of which were specifically targeted at the elderly. The collected data were sorted and filled into a table for data analysis, and the conclusion was drawn (Ivan et al., 2020).
In contrast, a study on Australian age-friendly policies drew on the WHO’s eight domains and conducted an in-depth review based on public documents, community consultations, surveys, and participant observations (Kendig et al., 2014). This research used text analysis to compare how multiple Australian cities implemented age-friendly policies and identified the factors contributing to intercity differences (Kendig et al., 2014).
Ultimately, I chose to adopt the WHO evaluation framework, as it is more entity-oriented and thus best suited to addressing the research questions in this context. By contrast, the European standards are largely conceptual, while the smart city criteria focus on technological and operational dimensions that are less compatible with the text-based policy analysis approach used in this study.
2.2. Comparative Policy Analysis
Comparative policy analysis is an important methodology that helps review public policies in specific domains and with different geographic units (e.g., defense, health care, housing, and economic policy) (Rose, 1973). Rose (1973) elaborated the procedures and principles of comparative policy analysis.
First, comparison inherently involves conceptualization. Any claim about similarities or differences in policies across countries or regions presupposes a shared conceptual framework. The term policy is best understood as a broad analytical category rather than a precisely defined scientific concept. The process model, according to Rose (1973), remains the most effective framework for structuring knowledge in this field.
One major advantage of the process model is that it emphasizes the relationships among political phenomena, rather than simply listing descriptive information. I am not concerned with the many factors that might influence policy in some indeterminate way. Instead, I aim to understand how these factors relate to one another—ideally in a logic that foregrounds causality—which a correlation matrix cannot provide (Rose, 1973). Rose (1973) also emphasizes that a model employed in comparative research must be applicable to single-nation studies, as a precondition of use.
In this context, the data required are typically objective and sociological in nature. Official government statistics often serve as the main source of information. Reliance on these records can help prevent researchers from making subjective claims about “demand,” since the documented data may or may not support such interpretations (Rose, 1973).
Finally, Rose suggests that any model regarding the operation mode of a social or political system may lead to completely opposite normative conclusions, provided that the observer has different value preferences for it. This does not render the model invalid (Rose, 1973).
Taking the analysis of the elderly-friendly policies in various cities of Australia as an example, this is a typical study that employed the comparative policy approach mentioned by Rose. It strictly followed several fundamental principles and was quite similar to my research approach. It can provide significant inspiration for my research. Below are the specific research methods and approaches of this researcher:
Drawing on the World Health Organization’s eight domains for age-friendly cities, the Australian government conducted a focused, multi-city review rather than a simple inventory of programs. Using the WHO framework as a coding guide, researchers analyzed public documents (legislation, municipal plans, budgets, evaluations) and paired this with community consultations (town halls, focus groups, surveys) and limited participant observation. These sources were synthesized through text analysis to compare how each city translated the eight domains into concrete measures and delivery. Cross-city matrices then highlighted where policies diverged and why—pointing to differences in governance arrangements, fiscal capacity, political priorities, urban form, and demographic profiles. The result is a concise, multi-angle comparison that explains not only what was done, but the factors shaping variation across cities (Kendig et al., 2014).
In this study. I chose comparative policy analysis as the primary approach to examine the diverging features, emphases, and strategies across major cities in China. Inspired by Kendig et al. (2014), I selected eight representative cities in China (Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Qingdao, Wuhan, Chongqing, Ha’erbin, and Urumqi) for the analysis of policy texts. The selection of these cities took into account various factors such as geography and economic development, aiming to ensure that they are all the most typical representatives. The decision to employ policy text analysis is guided by two main considerations. First, given the scale of my research setting, conducting on-site investigations is constrained by limited human resources, whereas text-based analysis can be carried out without requiring a large research team. Second, as noted in my literature review, previous studies have tended to overlook certain dimensions in the factors shaping policy texts. Through this approach, I aim to identify a more comprehensive and diverse range of influencing factors.
2.3. Research Gaps Filled by This Study
After reviewing studies on elderly-friendly policies in other countries, regions, and cities, it becomes clear that no comprehensive analysis has yet been conducted on city-level elderly-friendly policies within China. In particular, there is a lack of research that systematically compares the content, scope, and implementation of such policies across multiple Chinese cities. Moreover, the range of factors influencing the variation of elderly-friendly policies remains underexplored.
Therefore, this study aims to fill these gaps by conducting a comprehensive comparative policy analysis of eight major Chinese cities, thereby contributing new insights into how economic, geographic, and administrative contexts shape the development of elderly-friendly policies in China.
3. Methodology
3.1. Data
In this study, I extracted relevant information on policies for the elderly from the government websites of eight representative cities in China (see Figure 2). These policies were issued and released by various government agencies in these cities. For example. The Civil Affairs Bureau of Beijing and the Office of the Municipal Commission on Aging jointly implemented the 2016 Home Adaptation Program for the Elderly, aiming to create an elderly-friendly home environment and establish a thorough system for home-based elderly services (Beijing Municipal Government 2016). In addition, the Chongqing Municipal Government issued the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) for the Development of the Elderly Care Service System in Chongqing (Chongqing Municipal Government, 2022).
Figure 2. Locations of the Eight Case Cities in China
Shanghai Municipal Civil Affairs Bureau and the Municipal Commission of Commerce jointly issued the “Renewal” Activity Implementation Rules for Home Adaptation (including products and services), aiming to support consumption of home renovation and household items through subsidies, set up a streamlined implementation framework for elderly-friendly home adaptations, and strengthen oversight of subsidy use (Shanghai Municipal Civil Affairs Bureau & Municipal Commerce Commission, 2024).
The Shenzhen Municipal Civil Affairs Bureau issued the “0570” Implementation Rules for Elderly Home Adaptation (trial), providing one-off subsidies (up to ¥20,000 for the most disadvantaged or up to ¥12,000 for other eligible elderly individuals aged 60–69 with moderate (or worse) disability or aged 70 and over) to enhance home safety and living conditions for seniors (Shenzhen Civil Affairs Bureau, 2023).
The Qingdao Municipal Civil Affairs Bureau, together with several other municipal departments, launched the 2025 Home Adaptation Subsidy Project under the “Old-for-New Consumption” initiative, offering a 30% discount on eligible elderly-friendly home adaptation products (up to ¥15,000 per person), aimed at improving living conditions for seniors (Qingdao Municipal Government, 2025).
The Wuhan Municipal Civil Affairs Bureau published the “Wuhan Elderly Service Regulations,” aimed at enhancing and standardizing elderly services—from home and community care to institutional and integrated medical-elderly care—establishing a comprehensive, supportive legal framework for senior welfare (Wuhan People’s Congress Standing Committee, 2025).
The Ha’erbin Municipal Government issued the “Implementation Plan for Building Home-and-Community Elderly Care Demonstration Zones,” aimed at standardizing and enhancing elderly home-and-community care by creating a “15-minute service circle” and achieving full coverage of standardized care facilities by the end of 2025 (Ha’erbin Municipal Government, 2024).
The Urumqi Municipal Civil Affairs Bureau, in coordination with 18 other departments, issued the “Measures to Accelerate the Construction of the Basic Elderly Care Service System in Urumqi,” aiming to speed up the development of a comprehensive, multi-tiered elderly care infrastructure (Urumqi Civil Affairs Bureau et al., 2024). Detailed information of these policy documents can be found in Table 1.
3.2. Overview of the Eight Cities’ Policies
By conducting a comparative study of the elderly-friendly policies in eight typical cities in ChinaChinese cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Qingdao, Wuhan, Chongqing, Ha’erbin, and Wulumuqi), I found that each city's policies included four aspects proposed by the WHO Age-Friendly City (AFC) Framework: Housing and Outdoor Space, Buildings, transportation, and Community Support and Health Services (World Health Organization, 2007). These three aspects constitute the most fundamental safeguards, ensuring the safety and physiological needs of the elderly. One more point worth noting is that in almost all cities, there is a lack of transportation awareness. Only barrier-free access is provided, but there are no more detailed regulations, such as priority seating, voice announcements, large-font signs, and maintaining affordable fares, etc. Another common feature is that, while ensuring the physical needs of the elderly are met, few cities have formulated policies that are beneficial to the mental health of the elderly. For instance, enhancing the social participation of the elderly is very crucial, but it is often overlooked. The happiness of the elderly largely depends on whether they can actively participate in social and cultural activities. Among these cities, Chongqing and Qingdao have the most comprehensive policies for promoting elderly-friendly environments, covering most of the eight aspects outlined in the WHO AFC Framework. In contrast, the policies of the other cities only incorporate a portion of these standards.
3.3. Rating Criteria
Furthermore, all policy documents were sorted according to the eight standards within the WHO Age-Friendly City (AFC) Framework. I rated each of the indicators based on the relevance of elderly-friendly policies to the eight dimensions in the AFC framework. From 0 to 5, a policy is rated between the two ends, ranging from “not mentioned and not relevant” to “highly emphasized.” The scoring criteria are defined in Table 2 below.
Table 2. The Definition of Rating Scores Based on the Level of Relevance of Each Policy Dimension in the WHO AFC Framework.
3.4. Rating and Comparing Policies
Through reviewing the elderly-friendly policy documents available on the official websites of different municipal governments, I assigned scores based on keywords associated with the 8 dimensions of the WHO AFC framework. It is important to acknowledge that manual scoring inherently contains subjective aspects. Nevertheless, I have approached the scoring process with an objective mindset, aiming to ensure the highest possible accuracy and reliability of the data. The scoring of AFC in Eight Chinese cities from human perspective are defined in Table 3 below.
I innovatively used generative artificial intelligence (GenAI, e.g., ChatGPT) to rate the policies using the same criteria, as an approach of validation (Prescott et al. 2024, Aspland & Rudolph 2022). The scoring of AFC in eight Chinese cities from the perspective of ChatGPT are defined in Table 4 below.
I expect to draw unexpected and interesting conclusions by comparing the results of human scoring and AI scoring. For instance, i hope to assess the consistency between the conclusions obtained through qualitative research by humans and those generated by generative artificial intelligence, or in which aspects the analysis of AI might have significant errors. This issue does not have a direct or significant relationship with the primary focus of the current study. Nonetheless, it remains an intriguing and valuable topic for further exploration.
Qualitative research is very useful in many research scenarios. However, compared to generative artificial intelligence, qualitative research requires a significant amount of human resources and slows down the dissemination speed (Prescott et al., 2024). Prescott et al (2024) hopes to conduct research to evaluate the consistency between the qualitative analysis done by humans and the results obtained by generative artificial intelligence, and to summarize the time required for inductive analysis and deductive analysis respectively. Prescott et al (2024) used two commercially available GenAI services in this research: ChatGPT-3.5 (OpenAI) and Bard (Google).
This study involves 40 text message reminders for digital health interventions aimed at improving adherence to antiretroviral drugs among HIV-positive methamphetamine users (Prescott et al., 2024). The messages were summarized and thematically analyzed by two independent human coding teams, while an independent analyst conducted a similar analysis using ChatGPT and Bard, following the same methodology to ensure consistency (Prescott et al., 2024).
The research results show that the outcomes obtained by AI in handling qualitative analysis problems are highly consistent with those obtained by humans, and the consistency of the results obtained by AI in analyzing and summarizing problems is higher than that in handling reasoning problems (Prescott et al., 2024).
This indicates that using AI to assist humans in handling qualitative analysis problems can indeed significantly reduce labor costs and the time required (Prescott et al., 2024).
Prescott et al (2024) also proposed that the future research direction lies in how to maximize the reliability and efficiency of the research through the combined analysis of humans and AI.
Aspland & Rudolph (2022) also conducted a comparative analysis under different scenarios. The first group used traditional manual qualitative analysis, while the other group obtained the analysis results using GPT-4.
The research results are consistent with those of Prescott et al (2024), but the difference lies in that this study also points out the potential challenges that arise when using generative artificial intelligence to address qualitative analysis issues. In summary, the challenges we face are as follows: diverse outputs, same input, and excessive reliance on AI as a research tool (Aspland & Rudolph, 2022). By understanding how the benefits of these tools can enhance the research process, the academic community can harness their strengths more effectively while simultaneously limiting the potential negative impacts of their challenges and weaknesses (Aspland & Rudolph, 2022).
Nevertheless, AI can only serve as an auxiliary tool and cannot completely replace humans in conducting qualitative analysis work. (Aspland & Rudolph, 2022).
The detailed prompts and responses in the use of ChatGPT for data analysis in this paper can be found in Appendix A.
4. Results
4.1. Manual and AI Scoring based on WHO Standards
The results of the elderly-friendly policy review for the eight case cities are shown in Tables 3 and 4, in which Table 3 shows the results derived manually by the researcher and Table 4 shows the results generated by ChatGPT-5, using the same scoring criteria described in the Methodology section.
Based on the human rating results, Beijing received the highest scores (5) in the two dimensions: housing and outdoor space, and building. For example, the “Guiding Opinions on Implementing Age-Friendly Renovations and Constructing Barrier-Free Environments in the Comprehensive Upgrading of Old Residential Areas” issued in May 2025 emphasized the housing condition upgrading of old residential areas in Beijing. Strategies include elderly-friendly design and renovation for accessible ramps, handrails, and elevators in residential buildings. It also requested improving outdoor green space, leisure and recreational facilities in public space, accessibility facilities, including hand-rail benches, safety-protection exercise equipment, participatory gardening areas, and walking trails for health maintaining and rehabilitation.
Beijing received score 4 for “Community Support and Health Services.” For example, the “Notice of the Beijing Municipal Finance Bureau on Printing and Distributing the” Work Plan for Promoting the Consumption of Home Adaptation Products for the Elderly in Beijing" issued in October 2024 emphasized the policy of providing subsidies to families with elderly people: Each elderly household is eligible to submit only one application. For seniors aged 60 to 79, a 60% subsidy will be provided, up to a maximum of 5,000 yuan per household. Those aged 80 or older will receive an 80% subsidy, also capped at 5,000 yuan per household. Households classified as economically disadvantaged will receive subsidies according to their specific needs, with the same maximum limit of 5,000 yuan per household.
Beijing received score 1 for “Social Participation.” For example, the “Office of the Joint Conference on the Comprehensive Renovation of Old Residential Areas in Beijing issued the "Notice on the Implementation of the Guidance on the Adaptation of Aging and Barrier-Free Environment Construction in the Comprehensive Renovation of Old Residential Areas” issued in May 2021, which emphasized the importance of ensuring relevant work is carried out and promoting the culture of respecting, caring for, and supporting the elderly.
Beijing received score 1 for “Transportation.” For example, the “Office of the Joint Conference on the Comprehensive Renovation of Old Residential Areas in Beijing has issued the "Notice on the Implementation of the Guidance on the Adaptation of Aging and Barrier-Free Environment Construction in the Comprehensive Renovation of Old Residential Areas” issued in May 2021, which emphasized the necessary of providing intelligent home care services, such as emergency rescue, active call, and functional positioning for elderly families.
Shanghai received the highest scores (4) in the two dimensions: Respect and Social inclusion, and Community Support and Health Services. For example, the “Shanghai Municipal Civil Affairs Bureau and Shanghai Municipal Finance Bureau Notice on the Issuance of Several Opinions on Optimizing and Promoting the Elderly-Friendly Home Environment Adaptation Work in the City” issued in April 2025, which emphasized policies about Strengthening the publicity of policies for the elderly and provide more subsidies and assistance to the elderly. Strategies include encouraging and supporting children in implementing age-friendly home modifications for their elderly family members by promoting relevant awareness and concepts. Leverage community service platforms, including community affairs service centers and integrated elderly care service centers, alongside traditional communication channels such as newspapers, radio, and television. Additionally, utilize modern media platforms, including online resources, self-media, and social media, to broadly disseminate information about policies related to elderly-friendly renovations. Offer periodic financial assistance to households with elderly members, with a subsidy period lasting three years and a total accumulated subsidy amount capped at 5,000 yuan per household.
Shanghai received score 3 for “housing and outdoor space, and building.” For example, the “Shanghai Municipal Civil Affairs Bureau and Shanghai Municipal Finance Bureau Notice on the Issuance of Several Opinions on Optimizing and Promoting the Elderly-Friendly Home Environment Adaptation Work in the City” issued in April 2025, which emphasized the importance of upgrading the housing condition of old residential areas.
Shanghai received score 1 for “Transportation." For example, the “Shanghai Municipal Civil Affairs Bureau and Shanghai Municipal Finance Bureau Notice on the Issuance of Several Opinions on Optimizing and Promoting the Elderly-Friendly Home Environment Adaptation Work in the City” issued in April 2025, which emphasized the necessary of Guaranteeing the effective implementation of related initiatives and foster a social environment that values, cares for, and supports the elderly.
Shanghai received score 1 for “Social Participation." For example, the “Shanghai Municipal Civil Affairs Bureau and Shanghai Municipal Finance Bureau Notice on the Issuance of Several Opinions on Optimizing and Promoting the Elderly-Friendly Home Environment Adaptation Work in the City” issued in April 2025, which emphasized the importance of providing intelligent home care services, such as providing home meal delivery services for elderly people with mobility difficulties.
Shenzhen received a score of 3 in the "Housing" category. For example, the “0570 Elderly Home Adaptation Implementation Measures (Trial) of Shenzhen Municipality”, released in May 2023, highlighted the government's commitment to offering financial support to residents opting for home-based elderly care by adapting their homes accordingly. The initiative involves providing eligible applicants with a certain level of funding for renovations. These renovations are designed to meet the functional requirements of the elderly in areas such as daily living assistance, mobility, rehabilitation, and nursing. The scope of these modifications includes facilitating indoor movement, ensuring safe bathroom and toilet usage, simplifying kitchen operations, enhancing the living environment, implementing intelligent safety monitoring systems, and supplying appropriate assistive devices.
In the "Community Support and Health Services" category, Shenzhen earned a score of 5. The “0570 Elderly Home Adaptation Implementation Measures (Trial) of Shenzhen Municipality”, issued in May 2023, emphasized the importance of evaluating the elderly’s capability levels. The approach involves offering varying subsidy standards and coverage based on the assessment outcomes for different elderly groups. The evaluation of renovation needs for the elderly is conducted at the household level under the "assessment and renovation separation" model. The assessment team may consist of personnel from sub-district offices or community workstations, as well as professionals in healthcare, rehabilitation assistance, and barrier-free construction.
Qingdao received a score of 3 in the "Housing" category. For example, the "Opinions on Promoting the Construction of the Basic Elderly Care Service System" issued by the General Office of the Qingdao Municipal People's Government in December 2023, highlighted the need to strengthen land use guarantees and facility adaptations for the elderly. The measures include constructing community elderly care service facilities in new urban residential areas at a standard of no less than 20 square meters per 100 households; for existing urban residential areas that lack such facilities or do not meet the standards, they should be established at a standard of no less than 15 square meters per 100 households. The initiative also focuses on advancing the renovation of old residential areas and supporting the installation of elevators in existing buildings.
In the "Social Participation" category, Qingdao also scored 3. The "Opinions on Promoting the Construction of the Basic Elderly Care Service System" issued by the General Office of the Qingdao Municipal People's Government in December 2023, emphasized the provision of preferential treatment for the elderly. The measures include allowing free or discounted access to public cultural and sports facilities.
Qingdao scored 3 in the "Respect and Social Inclusion" category. The "Opinions on Promoting the Construction of the Basic Elderly Care Service System" issued by the General Office of the Qingdao Municipal People's Government in December 2023, highlighted the "Five-Community Linkage" mechanism. The approach involves promoting mutual assistance among neighbors and relatives, encouraging healthier, younger elderly individuals to assist older, isolated, or empty-nest elderly individuals. It also emphasizes the full utilization of the "Five-Community Linkage" mechanism involving communities, social workers, community social organizations, volunteers, and public welfare and charity resources to provide services such as hardship assistance, emotional support, and meal delivery for the elderly. Additionally, the city organizes the selection of titles like "Qingdao Elderly Care Envoys" to incentivize talent contributions and builds a city-wide elderly meal service network to encourage social participation in meal services.
In the "Citizen Participation and Employment" category, Qingdao also scored 3. The "Opinions on Promoting the Construction of the Basic Elderly Care Service System" issued by the General Office of the Qingdao Municipal People's Government in December 2023, emphasized mutual assistance. The strategies include promoting mutual aid among neighbors and relatives and encouraging healthier, younger elderly individuals to assist older, isolated, or empty-nest elderly individuals.
Qingdao scored 4 in the "Communication and Information Access" category. The "Opinions on Promoting the Construction of the Basic Elderly Care Service System" issued by the General Office of the Qingdao Municipal People's Government in December 2023, emphasized strengthening the informatization of elderly care services. The measures include accelerating the development of an intelligent elderly care service platform and promoting the application of information technology in areas such as service matching, business management, data analysis, comprehensive supervision, and intelligent early warning and monitoring.
Qingdao also scored 4 in the "Community Support and Health Services" category. The "Opinions on Promoting the Construction of the Basic Elderly Care Service System" issued by the General Office of the Qingdao Municipal People's Government in December 2023, emphasized promoting integrated medical and elderly care services. The strategies include deepening collaboration between medical and elderly care institutions to provide emergency rescue, appointment-based medical services, and regular home visits for the elderly. Medical institutions with legal person status can offer elderly care services by adjusting their registration items or business scope. The initiative also promotes "Internet + medical and health services" to provide home medical services for those in need.
In the "Outdoor Spaces and Public Buildings" category, Qingdao scored 3. The "Opinions on Promoting the Construction of the Basic Elderly Care Service System" issued by the General Office of the Qingdao Municipal People's Government in December 2023, emphasized prioritizing the renovation of public service facilities closely related to the elderly's lives. The strategies include implementing elderly-friendly adaptations for pocket parks and providing free access to public cultural facilities and discounted use of public sports facilities during certain periods.
Qingdao scored 3 in the "Transportation" category. The "Opinions on Promoting the Construction of the Basic Elderly Care Service System" issued by the General Office of the Qingdao Municipal People's Government in December 2023, emphasized implementing preferential policies for the elderly, including providing free rides on urban public transportation as stipulated.
Wuhan scored 3 in the "Housing" category. The "Wuhan Elderly Care Service Regulations" issued in August 2025 emphasized that new residential projects should be equipped with elderly care facilities according to provincial standards. The strategies include allowing non-profit elderly care facilities to use state-owned allocated land or collective construction land through legal means. For-profit elderly care facilities can obtain construction land through leasing, lease-to-own, or sale. The government supports the elderly in making their daily living facilities more accessible. For economically disadvantaged elderly people who are disabled, infirm, or of advanced age, the government provides stepwise subsidies for the renovation of their living facilities.
Wuhan scored 2 in the "Social Participation" category. The "Wuhan Elderly Care Service Regulations" issued in August 2025 emphasized that the city should follow national standards for elderly care facility construction. The strategies include configuring elderly care facilities based on the number of elderly residents, their needs, service radius, and convenience, and supporting the comprehensive utilization of public facilities such as education, health, and culture, and making adjustments according to economic and social development.
Wuhan scored 4 in the "Respect and Social Inclusion" category. The "Wuhan Elderly Care Service Regulations" issued in August 2025 emphasized the obligations and respect for the elderly in society. The strategies include family members respecting and caring for the elderly and assisting them in fulfilling their obligations. It is advocated that family members live with or near the elderly and take on the responsibility of care. The health and wellness authorities should guide medical institutions to provide extended medical services such as home visits, home care, and home beds for the elderly who have difficulty moving or are in real need.
Wuhan scored 3 in the "Citizen Participation and Employment" category. The "Wuhan Elderly Care Service Regulations" issued in August 2025 emphasized that the municipal and district governments should promote the expansion of elderly education resources. The strategies include strengthening the basic capacity building of elderly universities and supporting various educational institutions and other social forces to hold or participate in elderly education in various forms to meet the educational service needs of the elderly.
Wuhan scored 4 in the "Community Support and Health Services" category. The "Wuhan Elderly Care Services Regulations" in August 2025 emphasized the strengthening of elderly care service network construction. The strategies include each district should have at least one government-funded comprehensive elderly care service center. Each street and town should have at least one elderly care service complex with functions such as institutional care, day care, and home care services. Each community (village) should have at least one elderly care service point.
Wuhan scored 2 in the "Outdoor Spaces and Public Buildings" category. The "Wuhan Elderly Care Services Regulations" in August 2025 emphasized the adaptation of outdoor and public building facilities for the elderly. The strategies include those public facilities closely related to the daily life of the elderly, such as ramps, stair railings, elevators, and public toilets in residential areas, should comply with the national mandatory standards for barrier-free facility construction. The municipal and district governments should accelerate the barrier-free and elderly-friendly transformation of public facilities closely related to the daily life of the elderly, such as transportation and cultural facilities, and add facilities suitable for the elderly to rest and engage in activities in public spaces.
Wuhan scored 1 in the "Transportation" category. The "Wuhan Elderly Care Services Regulations" in August 2025 emphasized that the municipal and district governments should accelerate the barrier-free and elderly-friendly transformation of public facilities closely related to the daily life of the elderly, such as transportation and cultural facilities.
Chongqing scored 5 in the "Housing" category. The "Notice of the Chongqing Municipal People's Government on Issuing the 14th Five-Year Plan for the Construction of the Elderly Care Service System in Chongqing (2021-2025)" in March 2022 emphasized the supply of elderly care service facility land through various paid methods, supported the transformation of idle places into elderly care facilities, and further optimized the procedures for changing the purposes of existing land. The strategies include encouraging government agencies and state-owned enterprises and institutions to transform their educational and training or convalescent institutions that meet the conditions into elderly care facilities. Encouraging social forces to revitalize idle hospitals, schools, commercial facilities, etc., and transform and upgrade them for elderly care services. Improving construction and fire safety inspection policies to support social forces in using existing commercial service buildings for elderly care services.
Chongqing scored 3 in the "Social Participation" category. The "Notice of the Chongqing Municipal People's Government on Issuing the 14th Five-Year Plan for the Construction of the Elderly Care Service System in Chongqing (2021-2025)" in March 2022 emphasized the launch of the "Silver Age Action." The strategies include actively advocating the concept of healthy aging, guiding the elderly to participate in family, community, and social development based on their own conditions. Vigorously promoting the standardized construction of grassroots elderly associations, guiding the elderly, especially retired experts, scholars, and grassroots elderly cadres and the masses, to maintain a healthy mindset and enterprising spirit, and actively participate in economic and social development. Supporting the elderly to participate in public welfare, cultural, educational, and health undertakings, encouraging professionals to extend their working years or participate in volunteer services, promoting the elderly to contribute. Carrying out elderly cultural, sports, and educational activities. Actively conducting elderly education activities, providing convenient education services for the elderly through digital remote education and other means. Supporting the development of cultural and entertainment activities suitable for the elderly, cultivating elderly brand art teams, and supporting the creation of elderly cultural works. Guiding the elderly to exercise scientifically, supporting the research, display, experience, and promotion of sports and rehabilitation exercises, rehabilitation games, etc., that are suitable for the living habits, physiological characteristics, and psychological characteristics of the elderly, and popularizing safe exercise knowledge for the elderly.
Chongqing scored 3 in the "Communication and Information Access" category. The "Notice of the Chongqing Municipal People's Government on Issuing the 14th Five-Year Plan for the Construction of the Elderly Care Service System in Chongqing (2021-2025)" in March 2022 emphasized the long-term solution to the "digital divide" problem. The strategies include focusing on high-frequency matters and service scenarios involving the elderly, adhering to the parallel development of traditional service methods and intelligent service innovations, facilitating the use of online services for the elderly, optimizing procedures for offline channels, and effectively addressing the difficulties the elderly encounter in using intelligent technologies. Third-party evaluations will be organized to assess the degree of adaptation of public services for the elderly in various regions, and the relevant results will be incorporated into the comprehensive assessment system for actively responding to population aging.
Chongqing scored 4 in the "Citizen Participation and Employment" category. The "Notice of the Chongqing Municipal People's Government on Issuing the '14th Five-Year Plan' for the Construction of the Elderly Care Service System in Chongqing (2021-2025)" in March 2022 emphasized the establishment of a social participation guarantee system for the elderly. The strategies include establishing a long-term mechanism for the social participation of the elderly based on the actual economic and social development and population structure of each district and county and promoting the re-employment of the elderly. Platforms will be actively built, and a database of elderly human resources will be established as soon as possible to collect relevant resource information and register elderly talents for free. An elderly talent market will be established to provide regular venues for the exchange of elderly talents and offer employment supply and demand information. The publicity and guidance for the re-employment of the elderly will be strengthened, and through cooperation with various media, the influence of elderly re-employment will be expanded to create a favorable atmosphere where the elderly can contribute and the whole society supports entrepreneurship.
Chongqing scored 4 in the "Respect and Social Inclusion" category. The "Notice of the Chongqing Municipal People's Government on Issuing the '14th Five-Year Plan' for the Construction of the Elderly Care Service System in Chongqing (2021-2025)" in March 2022 emphasized promoting the social trend of respecting and caring for the elderly. The strategies include adhering to the correct direction of public opinion, fully leveraging the roles of various media such as radio, television, newspapers, and the internet, actively publicizing the significance of promoting high-quality development of elderly care services, enhancing the public's understanding of the necessity and urgency of developing elderly care services, and forming a consensus to create a favorable atmosphere where the whole society pays attention to elderly care services, cares about the elderly care cause, and supports elderly care work.
Chongqing scored 5 in the "Community Support and Health Services" category. The "Notice of the Chongqing Municipal People's Government on Issuing the '14th Five-Year Plan' for the Construction of the Elderly Care Service System in Chongqing (2021-2025)" in March 2022 emphasized improving the care service system for rural elderly people with special difficulties. The strategies include establishing and improving a home visit and assistance system for rural elderly people with economic difficulties, perfecting regular visit measures, promoting grid-based management, and promptly resolving various difficulties and problems encountered by rural elderly people. Mental care for left-behind elderly people will be strengthened, and mutual assistance elderly care facilities such as rural happiness homes will be developed. Social forces will be supported to establish rural left-behind elderly care funds, and funds will be raised through public donations to provide care and assistance to rural left-behind elderly people. Elderly care institutions will be encouraged and guided to provide home-based elderly care services such as meal assistance, cleaning assistance, mobility assistance, bathing assistance, medical assistance, rehabilitation, nursing, and visit care for elderly people with special difficulties.
Chongqing scored 4 in the "Outdoor Spaces and Public Buildings" category. The "Notice of the Chongqing Municipal People's Government on Issuing the '14th Five-Year Plan' for the Construction of the Elderly Care Service System in Chongqing (2021-2025)" in March 2022 emphasized implementing the elderly-friendly renovation project for the elderly with special difficulties. The strategies include orderly promoting the renovation of urban old residential areas, such as leveling the roads, making entrances and passages barrier-free, and treating the ground to prevent slipping. Handrails will be installed along the walls of staircases, and wall-mounted rest chairs will be installed between floors. Safety measures such as disaster monitoring and emergency shelters will be strengthened. The elderly-friendly renovation of community health service centers and community comprehensive service facilities will be improved to create a more convenient and warm community home environment.
Chongqing scored 2 in the "Transportation" category. The "Notice of the Chongqing Municipal People's Government on Issuing the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) for the Construction of the Elderly Care Service System in Chongqing" on March 2022 emphasized the provision of assistive devices and anti-wandering devices for elderly people with special difficulties to facilitate their safe travel.
Ha’erbin scored 3 in the "Housing" category. The "Notice of the Ha’erbin Municipal People's Government on Issuing the Implementation Plan for the Construction of Demonstration Areas for Home and Community Elderly Care Services in Ha’erbin City" in June 2024 emphasized the need to make comprehensive plans for the layout of elderly care facilities. The strategies include scientifically, and reasonably allocating home and community elderly care service resources based on the distribution of the elderly population and the demand for elderly care facilities, and compiling the "Spatial Layout Plan for Elderly Care Facilities in Ha’erbin City (2025-2035)" under the framework of the Ha’erbin City's overall land space planning system. It also supports the transformation of idle existing spaces into elderly care facilities. After assessment and argumentation of the implementation of the plan, the existing spaces can legally increase their floor area ratio to improve urban service functions.
Ha’erbin scored 1 in the "Social Participation" category. The "Notice of the Ha’erbin Municipal People's Government on Issuing the Implementation Plan for the Construction of Demonstration Areas for Home and Community Elderly Care Services in Ha’erbin City" in June 2024 emphasized the need to promote the diversified expansion of service functions. The strategies include adding the function of elderly schools to independent elderly care restaurants based on providing nutritious meals for the elderly, and organizing activities that the elderly enjoy, such as health lectures, handicrafts, and interest groups, based on environmental conditions, to create "dining hall + school" micro elderly care stations.
Ha’erbin scored 2 in the "Respect and Social Inclusion" category. The "Notice of the Ha’erbin Municipal People's Government on Issuing the Implementation Plan for the Construction of Demonstration Areas for Home and Community Elderly Care Services in Ha’erbin City" in June 2024 emphasized the need to expand publicity. The strategies include widely publicizing the construction of demonstration areas for home and community elderly care services and other work through media such as newspapers, television, websites, WeChat, Weibo, and community (village) bulletin boards, creating a favorable atmosphere of respecting, loving, and assisting the elderly, promoting positive elderly care culture, enhancing the awareness of the whole society to participate in home and community elderly care services, and forming a situation where everyone is familiar with and widely participates, so that more elderly people can enjoy convenience and benefits.
Ha’erbin scored 1 in the "Citizen Participation and Employment" category. The "Notice of the Ha’erbin Municipal People's Government on Issuing the Implementation Plan for the Construction of Demonstration Areas for Home and Community Elderly Care Services in Ha’erbin City" in June 2024 emphasized the promotion of the elderly school economy. The strategies include relying on the elderly education public service platform established by the National Open University and the Elderly University to build an elderly education resource library and a teacher library, supporting the use of community elderly care service venues for elderly education, and keeping up with the development of "Internet + Education" technology to provide rich online learning resources for the elderly.
Ha’erbin scored 4 in the "Community Support and Health Services" category. The "Notice of the Ha’erbin Municipal People's Government on Issuing the Implementation Plan for the Construction of Demonstration Areas for Home and Community Elderly Care Services in Ha’erbin City" in June 2024 emphasized that the street-level elderly day care centers should have at least five basic service functions: life care (short-term care), rehabilitation and health care, mental comfort, meal assistance, and intelligent call, as well as additional services. The strategies include promoting cooperation between community elderly care service facilities and grassroots medical and health institutions to improve the prevention and treatment level of elderly diseases, promoting the transformation of scientific research achievements in the field of elderly health, and providing remote consultations, free clinics, and mobile clinics for community elderly people. It also encourages community elderly care service institutions to provide venues to offer integrated medical and elderly care services for high-aged, seriously ill, disabled, and partially disabled elderly people who have difficulty moving around in the community.
Ha’erbin scored 3 in the "Outdoor Spaces and Public Buildings" category. The "Notice of the Ha’erbin Municipal People's Government on Issuing the Implementation Plan for the Construction of Demonstration Areas for Home and Community Elderly Care Services in Ha’erbin" in June 2024 emphasized the vigorous promotion of the construction of community elderly care service facilities. The strategies include the requirement that new residential areas should be equipped with home elderly care service facilities with a floor area of no less than 30 square meters per 100 households, and existing residential areas should be equipped with such facilities with a floor area of no less than 20 square meters per 100 households. These facilities are to be used for the establishment of community-based elderly care centers (with a floor area of no less than 500 square meters), home elderly care service stations (with a floor area of no less than 100 square meters), and elderly care restaurants, among other community-integrated elderly care service facilities.
Urumqi scored 3 in the "Housing" category. For example, the "Notice on Issuing Several Measures for Accelerating the Construction of the Basic Elderly Care Service System in Urumqi" in February 2024 emphasized the promotion of barrier-free environment construction. The strategies include supporting the adaptation of elderly care facilities in the renovation of old urban residential areas. Continuously promoting the adaptation of elderly care facilities in the homes of economically disadvantaged elderly people, guiding professional social institutions to build family elderly care beds for eligible elderly people living at home, and carrying out family adaptation for elderly people with severe disabilities (severe disabilities), special families due to family planning policies, and the elderly with advanced age.
Urumqi scored 3 in the "Community Support and Health Services" category. For instance, the "Notice on Issuing Several Measures for Accelerating the Construction of the Basic Elderly Care Service System in Urumqi" in February 2024 emphasized the establishment of a care service system for special elderly people in difficulty. The strategies include implementing the government's purchase of home elderly care services, adopting the method of government purchasing services to support social work stations in towns (streets) and community (village) elderly day care centers (stations) in providing "six assistance" services to elderly people living alone, empty-nest, left-behind, disabled, severely disabled, and special families due to family planning policies (hereinafter referred to as elderly people in special difficulty).
Urumqi scored 3 in the "Outdoor Spaces and Public Buildings" category. For example, the "Notice on Issuing Several Measures for Accelerating the Construction of the Basic Elderly Care Service System in Urumqi" in February 2024 emphasized giving priority to the renovation of public service facilities closely related to the daily life of the elderly, encouraging the implementation of barrier-free environment certification, and improving the level of barrier-free environment services.
Urumqi scored 1 in the "Communication and Information Access" category. For instance, the "Notice on Issuing Several Measures for Accelerating the Construction of the Basic Elderly Care Service System in Urumqi" in February 2024 emphasized strengthening the construction of information accessibility, retaining offline service channels, and reducing the difficulty for the elderly in applying digital technology.
Table 3. Rate the Elderly-Friendly Policies of eight Chinese Cities using the WHO AFC Framework (From a human perspective).
When comparing the eight cities, I have summarized the similarities and differences between their policies. All eight cities have placed a shared emphasis on “Housing” as well as “Outdoor Space and Buildings”, with each city developing relatively comprehensive policies in these areas. This highlights that these two aspects are considered essential and foundational in the development of age-friendly urban environments.
In comparison, most cities lack specific policies related to “Communication and Information” accessibility for the elderly. Only Qingdao’s government has established highly detailed and targeted measures in this domain, ensuring that older adults can access timely and convenient information.
Regarding “Transportation”, the policies across cities tend to lack specificity, often only referencing general services such as shuttle provision. In contrast, Qingdao and Chongqing have introduced more concrete and actionable strategies.
The most significant diverging patterns were shown for “Respect and Social Inclusion”. The majority of cities either do not address related policies or give them minimal focus. Only Shanghai, Wuhan, and Chongqing have actively worked to raise public awareness of aging-related issues through diverse channels such as online platforms, news media, and promotional campaigns. These efforts have helped increase public understanding of the importance of respecting older adults and have contributed to fostering a more inclusive society for the elderly. This indicates that, after meeting the basic Instinctive-level needs, many municipal governments still devote limited attention to the emotional and psychological well-being of the elderly population.
Table 4. Rate the Elderly-Friendly Policies of eight Chinese Cities using the WHO AFC Framework (From the perspective of ChatGPT-5).
4.2. Discrepancies and Validation of the Results
The comparison between the results of manual qualitative analysis and those generated by artificial intelligence (AI) reveals notable discrepancies in the domains of Communication and Information as well as Civic Participation and Employment. In other domains, while the overall trends are generally consistent, there remain differences in the assigned scores.
In the category of Communication and Information, there is a noticeable difference between the score range I assigned and that generated by AI. From my perspective, this domain should encompass elements such as assisting older adults in using smartphones and enhancing readability through clear visuals or larger font sizes. In contrast, AI interprets this domain as including government-led initiatives that promote policies addressing an aging society. This divergence in understanding led to a considerable gap between the scores produced by the two approaches.
Similarly, in Civic Participation and Employment, there is a discrepancy between the scores I assigned and those provided by the AI. In my assessment, this category applies only when specific job opportunities or targeted training programs for older adults are available. However, the AI adopts a broader interpretation, suggesting that the elderly may participate indirectly in civic roles through activities such as “applications for renovation” or “satisfaction evaluations.” Furthermore, the AI highlights that policies mentioning “recruitment of service providers” or the “involvement of social organizations” could create indirect opportunities for older adults to engage as volunteers or employees. This divergence in interpretation has similarly resulted in a substantial scoring difference between the two approaches.
After conducting a comprehensive comparison between the human and AI assessment outcomes, I finalized the scoring results. In this process, I incorporated the reasonable suggestions provided by the AI while disregarding those aspects I deemed inappropriate or unjustified. The AFC scores of eight cities in China that have been verified are presented in Table 5.
Table 5. Rate the Elderly-Friendly Policies of eight Chinese Cities using the WHO AFC Framework (The validated results).
In order to present the data for each city in a clearer and more intuitive manner, radar charts have been individually constructed for each city's data visualization (see Figure 3).
Figure 3. Radar Charts of the Policy Elements based on the Eight Criteria in WHO Standards
4.3. Keywords Extraction
I further identified five keywords in the policies for each city. I imported the policy documents into ChatGPT 5.0 and asked it to extract keywords. This offers an additional lens for the policies and highlights the emphasis of each city. The results are displayed in Table 6. The order of the keywords for each city reflects the ranking of the importance from high (Keyword 1) to low (Keyword 2).
Table 6. Keywords Identified for Each City.
5. Discussion
5.1. Two Dimensions of the Policy Typologies
I created a coordinate system to illustrate the policy typologies based on two dimensions. The first dimension (X axis) reflects fundamental focus of the policies, ranging from completely material-oriented policies (right end) to completely social oriented policies (left end). The second dimension (Y axis) reflects the strength of policies ranging from the strongest (top) to the weakest (bottom). The positions of the eight cities within the coordinate system are shown in Figure 4.
Figure 4. The Coordinate System of the Policy Typologies
It is evident that Beijing, Chongqing, and Shanghai have placed greater emphasis on the material dimensions of their age-friendly policies and have undertaken significant physical renovations, such as the installation of adaptive equipment in housing units and the redesign of outdoor spaces.
The policy documents of Ha’erbin and Shenzhen also prioritize improvements in basic physical infrastructure, though the scope and policy emphasis remain relatively limited. In contrast, the policy documents of Qingdao and Wuhan place greater emphasis on the social integration and sense of belonging of older adults. This does not suggest that infrastructure development in these two cities is inadequate; rather, it indicates that their policies place stronger focus on enhancing social inclusion. Similarly, Urumqi’s policy documents also reflect an orientation toward promoting social participation, though the degree of emphasis is comparatively weaker.
5.2. Potential Factors Influencing the Discrepancies in Policies
Based on the analysis of the characteristics of different cities and the texts of elderly-friendly policies, I have summarized four possible factors that may lead to the differences in the texts of elderly-friendly policies.
5.2.1. Economic factor
One factor that may lead to differences in elderly-friendly policies among different cities in China is economic development.
In 2024, Beijing’s gross domestic product (GDP) reached approximately ¥49,843.1 billion, with the service sector emerging as the principal driver of economic growth. Key components such as finance, technology, cultural industries, information services, and high-end business services dominate the city's economic landscape. Although industry and construction continue to contribute, their relative scale is considerably smaller, while agriculture accounts for only a minimal share (Beijing Municipal Government, 2025).
Shanghai’s GDP reached around ¥53,926.7 billion in the same year. While manufacturing and construction remain relevant, the economy has increasingly shifted toward services—including finance, information technology, professional services—and particularly strategic emerging industries, which now form the core of its economic structure (Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Statistics & National Bureau of Statistics Shanghai Survey Team, 2025).
Urumqi achieved a GDP of roughly ¥4,502.16 billion in 2024. Despite its relatively modest economic size, the service sector is the principal force behind its growth; however, the secondary sector—comprising industry and construction—plays a vital supporting role, especially through key industries such as petrochemicals, manufacturing, and construction (Urumqi Municipal Government, 2025).
Ha’erbin reported a GDP of about ¥5,576.0 billion in 2024. Services are gaining prominence, particularly in logistics, finance, cultural sectors, and commerce, yet the city continues to rely significantly on its industrial and construction base, underscoring its historical identity as an industrially oriented urban center (Ha’erbin Municipal Statistics Bureau, 2025).
It is evident that in 2024, Beijing and Shanghai recorded significantly higher total GDP compared to Urumqi and Ha’erbin, with the latter two cities registering much lower economic output—approximately one-tenth of the former, highlighting a substantial disparity in economic scale.
In big cities like Beijing and Shanghai, the economy is highly developed, and the government has more money to invest in urban infrastructure construction and renovation, including the adaptation for the elderly. With more funds invested, on the one hand, the government can purchase high-quality elderly care equipment. For instance, better materials provide a more comfortable experience and are also safer. More intelligent automated devices can be easier for the elderly to operate, etc. All these contribute to a better living environment for the elderly. On the other hand, the government can popularize elderly care equipment in a wider range. For example, the renovation coverage can reach over 90% of the entire city. Therefore, the overall effect of the basic elderly care equipment renovation in this city will be more significant.On the contrary, if a city's total GDP is relatively low, the government will not have much money to invest in the adaptation for the elderly in the city, and the renovation effect will naturally be worse. This explains why the indoor and outdoor adaptation for the elderly in Beijing and Shanghai is done very well, while in comparison, Urumqi and Ha’erbin are far behind.
5.2.2. Population structure and demographics
Another factor that may influence the differences in elderly-friendly policies formulated by different cities in China is the population structure.
By the end of 2024, Shenzhen's permanent resident population was 17,989,500. Among them, the registered population was 6,310,100, accounting for 35.1% of the total permanent resident population, while the non-registered population was 11,679,400, making up 64.9% (Shenzhen Municipal Statistics Bureau, 2025). According to the seventh national census, the population aged 65 and above in Shenzhen was 565,217, accounting for approximately 3.22% of the total permanent resident population (National Bureau of Statistics of China & State Council Leading Group Office of the Seventh National Population Census, 2021).
By the end of 2024, Chongqing's permanent resident population was 31,904,700. The population aged 0-15 was 4,651,700, those aged 16-59 were 19,241,700, and those aged 60 and above were 8,011,300; among them, the population aged 65 and above was 6,020,400, which can be estimated to account for approximately 18.9% of Chongqing's total population (Chongqing Municipal Bureau of Statistics, 2025).
The demographic structure of Shenzhen is characterized by a very high proportion of migrant workers, a very low proportion of local residents, and a very low proportion of people over 65 years old. The majority are young people who come from other places to work. Chongqing, on the contrary, has a large proportion of local residents and the total proportion of people aged 65 and above is significantly higher than that of Shenzhen.
If the proportion of the elderly in the population structure is low and the proportion of local residents is also low, the demand for improving the lives of the elderly will be relatively low. Therefore, the government does not need to invest a lot of funds and pay much attention to aging-related work. The simplest and most cost-effective approach is to invest a small amount of money in improving infrastructure. On the contrary, if the proportion of the elderly in a city is high, the demand for improving the lives of the elderly will also be correspondingly higher, which will make it easier for the government to pay deep attention to this issue. Compared with superficially improving infrastructure, the government will pay more attention to whether the elderly have been spiritually comforted, because only spiritual attention can fundamentally solve the problems faced by the elderly. No matter how good the infrastructure is, it cannot give them a sense of social participation and belonging. This also explains why in Shenzhen, a city with a low proportion of elderly population, the government's elderly-friendly policies tend to focus on low-level infrastructure renovations, while in Chongqing, a city with a high proportion of elderly population, the government's elderly-friendly policies tend to be more oriented towards high-level social services.
5.2.3. Geolocation and environment
A further factor that could contribute to variations in elderly-friendly policy development across Chinese cities is their geographical location and natural environmental conditions.
In 2024, the annual average precipitation in Qingdao was 924.2 millimeters, approximately 35.7% more than the multi-year average, and the annual average temperature was 14.3 ℃(Qingdao Municipal Government, 2025). In 2024, the annual average precipitation in Urumqi was 196.2 millimeters, and the annual average temperature was 9.6 ℃ (Xinjiang Meteorological Bureau, 2025).
Qingdao is located in a coastal area with a superior geographical position and has been famous for its tourism since early times. Therefore, there is a very solid foundation in infrastructure (the original intention was to provide a better housing experience for tourists), which has improved the overall urban housing standards. Moreover, the high annual precipitation in Qingdao has prompted the Qingdao government to be more proactive in improving the infrastructure conditions for the elderly. For instance, to prevent water accumulation, it has improved the drainage system, built rain shelters, barrier-free anti-slip passages, and enhanced the rain tolerance of infrastructure design. In contrast, cities like Urumqi, which have low annual water volume and are not geographically advantageous, do not have a solid housing foundation developed early on due to tourism. So, the basic housing conditions in these cities are far inferior to those in Qingdao.
5.2.4. Administrative and political level
An additional influencing factor that may contribute to the variation in elderly-friendly policies across Chinese cities is the administrative or political level of the city.
Chongqing has a high degree of decentralization in the approval authority. It has delegated some municipal approval items to the “Liang jiang” New Area (283 items) and generally delegated 96 approval items to the districts and counties, demonstrating a certain trend of "delegating power to the grassroots" (Chongqing Municipal Government, 2013). As for Urumqi, the degree of decentralization in approval authority is relatively low compared to Chongqing (Urumqi Municipal Government, 2025).
In China’s administrative framework, a city’s administrative rank significantly influences its ability to secure resources, shape policies, and drive institutional reforms. As a result, cities with higher administrative status generally develop more comprehensive and structured strategies to address population aging. First, these cities enjoy greater decision-making authority and institutional flexibility, allowing them to independently design local regulations, launch targeted initiatives, establish financial support mechanisms, and strategically plan long-term responses to demographic aging at the policy level. Second, they typically possess stronger fiscal capacity and public investment potential, enabling sustained funding for elderly care infrastructure, accessibility improvements in urban environments, and the adoption of smart technologies for senior support. Third, higher-tier cities are often characterized by dense populations and advanced economic development, where aging-related challenges are more acute and policy needs more pressing, thus motivating governments to expand policy scope, enhance service delivery, and promote institutional advancements. Moreover, these urban centers host a concentration of research institutions, healthcare facilities, and social organizations, fostering a robust ecosystem of government-industry-academia collaboration that enhances the scientific rigor and foresight of policy design. In comparison, lower-tier cities face clear limitations in financial assets, skilled personnel, digital infrastructure, and inter-agency coordination, making them heavily reliant on directives and funding from upper-level authorities. Consequently, in building age-friendly environments, they tend to demonstrate strong implementation capabilities but limited capacity for policy innovation.
5.3. Policy Implications and Recommendations
By reading and analyzing the elderly-friendly policy texts of several typical cities in China, I have summarized the common or specific unique weaknesses of the elderly-friendly policies in each city.
Among the eight cities in China, each city has basically not formulated any relevant policies for the elderly's travel and transportation issues. Qingdao, which scored the highest, only got 3 points in terms of transportation policies. This is very unfavorable for the elderly and there are several possible hidden dangers. The first issue is safety hazards. Due to the lack of sufficient age-friendly modifications on transportation vehicles, such as handrails and special protective seats, elderly people may fall during the ride or when the vehicle suddenly stops, which is extremely dangerous. For young people, a fall may not be a big deal, but for the elderly, it could be fatal because their organs have already declined and are very fragile. The second issue is that it is not convenient for the elderly to travel. For instance, the stops of public transportation are far from their homes, making it difficult for them to reach. The inconvenience of transportation may delay the elderly from going out for relaxation and even affect their access to important places such as hospitals.
Beijing and Shanghai have similar problems in formulating policies for an aging society. These two cities have not yet formulated detailed policies on the social participation of the elderly, which may lead to the elderly gradually becoming disconnected from the rapidly developing modern society. Moreover, they pay insufficient attention to the information exchange of the elderly and the employment issues of citizens. Although this may seem to have no direct relation to the physical health of the elderly, it may indirectly affect their mental health. Due to their inability to master the use of smart phones, the elderly are gradually disconnected from the information society and feel lonely. Moreover, if no special measures are taken to help the elderly re-enter the job market, they will have nothing to do at home, feel bored and empty, and their mental health will gradually decline
Shenzhen has only formulated relatively detailed policy documents in the areas of elderly-friendly housing renovation and community health services. In other aspects, it has not paid much attention and basically has not mentioned any policies. This is a very serious problem. It can be seen that the policies for elderly-friendly renovations in Shenzhen are far from complete and require significant overall adjustments.
Overall, Qingdao is very comprehensive and there are no obvious deficiencies in its policies for the elderly. If there is anything to mention, it would be that the policies related to transportation could be further deepened to provide a more comfortable travel experience for the elderly.
The elderly-friendly policies formulated by Wuhan and Chongqing are also very comprehensive. The only drawback is that these two cities have not yet developed very detailed policies for the communication and information access of the elderly. This will result in most elderly people being unable to obtain the latest information in a timely manner through mobile phones and other electronic devices, thus missing many important events.
Ha’erbin and Urumqi face the same problems in their elderly-friendly policy documents. Neither city has formulated detailed policies in terms of information exchange for the elderly, their employment, or their sense of social participation. This results in a poor sense of social integration among the elderly and an inability to effectively guarantee their mental health.
In response to the problems faced by the above eight cities in formulating policies for an aging society, I have provided targeted suggestions.
Regarding housing policies, I believe the government can offer more subsidies to families with elderly members, making it easier for each such family to afford indoor elderly-friendly equipment, or even purchase better new houses for the elderly to live in. For instance, better air conditioners, fresh air systems, floor heating, etc. Through such measures, the housing quality for the elderly can be significantly improved, and a wider range of elderly people can enjoy the benefits.
In terms of social participation, the government can offer special opportunities for the elderly to take part in specific activities and events. For instance, free senior universities can be established to enable the elderly to continue their education even after they reach their sixties. Not only can they acquire life skills, but they can also satisfy their continuous thirst for knowledge.
Regarding respect and social integration, initiatives should focus on strengthening older adults' sense of dignity and active involvement in society, fostering an inclusive and supportive social environment. To begin with, governments and local communities need to facilitate equal participation of the elderly in public affairs, cultural events, and decision-making processes through structured programs and policy frameworks. For example, reserving representative roles for older individuals in community gatherings, public celebrations, or volunteer initiatives, as well as forming interest-based groups tailored to diverse abilities and preferences among the elderly, can enhance their visibility and engagement in social life. Furthermore, public spaces and infrastructure must embrace the principle of "inclusive design." Beyond physical accessibility features, attention should be paid to how signage, service procedures, and digital platforms are designed to accommodate the needs of older users, minimizing both psychological discomfort and technological challenges they may encounter. Additionally, awareness campaigns, educational efforts, and intergenerational interaction programs should be promoted to encourage younger generations to value, empathize with, and meaningfully connect with older people.
With regard to citizen participation and employment, initiatives should aim to support the elderly in remaining actively engaged in social and economic life. Governments can encourage businesses to hire older adults by implementing flexible work arrangements, offering tax benefits, and promoting job adaptations that accommodate their needs. Complementary measures, such as providing access to vocational retraining programs and digital literacy training, can equip older individuals with the skills necessary to transition into emerging sectors. Additionally, structured opportunities should be created for seniors to contribute to community governance and volunteer initiatives, ensuring their voices are included in public decision-making processes. Strengthening labor rights protections and enforcing anti-discrimination policies will not only enable the elderly to utilize their valuable experience but also safeguard their legal entitlements.
In terms of communication and information, the government should enhance the convenience for the elderly to access information. With the rapid development of the digital age, more and more information can only be accessed through electronic devices, unlike newspapers and other media in the past. However, the elderly often do not know how to use electronic devices, which leads to their inability to maintain close ties with society. To address this issue, the government can launch some helpful training programs, such as recruiting volunteers to teach the elderly how to use electronic devices on-site in the community. In addition, each app can also develop a special mode for the elderly. For instance, the font can be larger and more prominent, and the page can be more concise, making it easier for the elderly to obtain information.
With regard to community support and health services, there is a pressing need to develop an integrated health and care framework that supports older adults across all phases of aging. Local communities must enhance access to primary healthcare and continuous health monitoring by offering routine medical check-ups, rehabilitation advice, and home-based care, ensuring prompt support for elderly individuals—particularly those who are socially isolated or reside alone. Public authorities should actively encourage the adoption of contracted family doctor models, thereby strengthening coordination between community-level health providers and familial caregiving networks, which in turn helps relieve the burden on tertiary hospitals. For seniors who are advanced in age or live independently, systematic outreach programs and rapid emergency response systems should be implemented, supplemented by intelligent surveillance devices to minimize the impact of unexpected health incidents. Emotional well-being deserves equal attention; thus, accessible mental health counseling and peer-led mutual aid initiatives should be introduced to address issues such as social isolation and depressive symptoms. Moreover, the existing frameworks for medical insurance and long-term care coverage require ongoing refinement to lessen the financial strain associated with healthcare and daily living assistance for older populations.
In terms of Outdoor Space and Buildings, the elderly also encounter a series of corresponding issues. The main problem lies in the limited outdoor space available for activities, which often forces the elderly to compete with the young for interactive spaces, leading to situations where the elderly dancing in public squares affects the surrounding communities. To solve this problem, the government should increase the number of available activity spaces near communities, thereby alleviating the issue. For instance, small patches of outdoor green spaces can be built around the residential area, allowing the elderly to take a walk and relax. Or some small community parks and greenways can be constructed.
In terms of transportation, the biggest problem that the elderly face is the first/last kilometer problem. Transportation vehicles solve 90% of the journey for the elderly, but they still have to walk a certain distance to reach their destination after getting off. This is still very inconvenient for them. If shuttle buses or similar tools could be added, this problem could be effectively solved. In addition, inside public transportation vehicles, special seats and handrails for the elderly should be added to ensure their safety. This is because the elderly are much more vulnerable physically than young people. If they fall on the vehicle, it could lead to serious consequences or even endanger their lives. Furthermore, prominent travel maps can also be provided inside transportation vehicles to help the elderly check where they should get off and avoid missing their stop.
A thorough examination of elderly-friendly policies across eight representative Chinese cities indicates that, while initial efforts have been made to address population aging, existing strategies continue to suffer from notable imbalances and structural shortcomings. At the individual city level, Qingdao, Wuhan, and Chongqing have developed relatively well-rounded policy frameworks; however, improvements are still needed in transportation accessibility and digital connectivity. Despite their abundant economic and social resources, Beijing and Shanghai exhibit clear gaps in facilitating elderly social engagement and ensuring equitable access to information. Shenzhen’s initiatives emphasize housing upgrades and community-based health services but fall short in promoting social inclusion and emotional well-being. In contrast, cities such as Ha’erbin and Urumqi lag significantly in policy development, particularly in domains like digital inclusion, senior re-employment opportunities, and integration into broader social networks. These disparities highlight a shared challenge among Chinese urban centers: differing levels of economic advancement, divergent policy priorities, and varying public awareness contribute to fragmented approaches and inconsistent implementation of aging-related measures.
From a broader standpoint, future policy development for an aging society should prioritize coherence and inclusivity by establishing a holistic support framework encompassing "housing – mobility – healthcare – social engagement – digital access." First, governmental bodies must enhance inter-agency collaboration through strategic top-down planning, expanding housing subsidies, improving transport infrastructure, and strengthening medical and community care systems to ensure safer and more comfortable living environments for older adults. Second, greater emphasis should be placed on socio-emotional integration, including support for lifelong learning, volunteer participation, part-time employment options for seniors, and intergenerational activities, enabling the elderly not only to live longer but also to live more meaningfully. Third, given the ongoing digital transformation, policies must prioritize digital literacy programs and technology accessibility to effectively close the intergenerational "digital gap." Lastly, localized policy guidance should be reinforced, allowing municipalities to design tailored strategies based on their unique demographic profiles and developmental contexts, thereby fostering a multi-tiered system that links national frameworks with grassroots execution.
In summary, China’s elderly policies must evolve from isolated interventions toward integrated, systemic reform—shifting focus from mere physical accommodations to encompass social involvement and psychological well-being. Only by securing both a decent standard of living and sustained social contribution can older individuals maintain dignity and purpose, ultimately realizing the dual objectives of active aging and an inclusive society.
Table 7. Potential strategies for developing elderly friendly cities
6.Conclusion
Through this study, I found that the commonalities among elderly-friendly policies across Chinese cities lie in their shared focus on ensuring basic indoor renovations and outdoor space adaptations to meet the fundamental living needs and safety requirements of older adults. However, transportation has received relatively little attention—most relevant policies only address the issue briefly and superficially. The differences among these policies are also notable. Cities with higher administrative status or stronger economic development tend to provide more comprehensive and detailed renovation guidelines in these fundamental areas. Overall, the policy emphasis among cities can be broadly categorized into two orientations: (1) those prioritizing infrastructure renovation as the foundation of age-friendly policy, and (2) those focusing primarily on enhancing the mental well-being and social connectedness of older adults.
Four key factors may account for this variation. First, economic conditions play a significant role. Municipalities with stronger economies typically possess greater financial resources to allocate toward infrastructure development. Consequently, cities with higher economic capacity tend to establish more comprehensive policies regarding age-friendly infrastructure compared to those with limited economic means. Second, demographic composition influences policy focus. Urban areas with a larger share of elderly permanent residents are more likely to prioritize the psychological well-being and social integration of older adults when designing public policies. Third, geographical and environmental aspects also contribute. Cities advantageously positioned geographically often benefit from an already robust housing framework, facilitating easier retrofitting and upgrades. Moreover, regions experiencing consistent rainfall throughout the year face greater pressure to invest in infrastructure improvements, which in turn accelerates efforts to create elderly-friendly environments. Fourth, the administrative hierarchy of a city affects policy implementation. Higher-tier administrative cities generally enjoy greater legal authority, ensuring that once policies are enacted, they are effectively enforced. As a result, local authorities in these cities are more inclined to develop thorough and specific guidelines. In contrast, in jurisdictions where enforcement mechanisms are weak, even well-designed policies may fail to be fully realized, leading to a noticeable reduction in policy effectiveness and detail.
This research s contributes to a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the situation of elderly-friendly policies across China's vast territory. By systematically studying a large number of municipal policy documents, it meticulously depicts how various regions, from highly developed coastal cities to relatively less developed inland areas, address the issues of aging and elderly welfare through local governance.
This study represents the first application of the World Health Organization’s "Age-Friendly Cities" (AFC) framework to systematically evaluate age-friendly policies in China. Drawing on the framework’s nine key domains—including transportation, housing, community services, and social participation—the study establishes a quantitative assessment model with a 1-to-5 scoring scale to gauge the extent of policy implementation across these areas. This methodological advancement facilitates systematic cross-city comparisons, offering valuable insights for policymakers and scholars to identify both achievements and gaps in aging-related governance. By adapting the AFC framework to the Chinese context, the study not only contextualizes a global benchmark but also delivers a scalable instrument that can support future international comparative analyses.
This study further enhances understanding by examining a series of multi-dimensional factors that may influence the development and effectiveness of age-friendly policies at the urban level, covering a more comprehensive range of potential influencing factors than previous studies. These factors include per capita GDP, the rate of population aging, fiscal capacity, urbanization level, and governance characteristics, among other socio-economic variables. By incorporating these factors into the analysis, the study explores how structural, economic, and demographic features shape policy outcomes.
Finally, this study is the first known to apply generative artificial intelligence (ChatGPT-5) and large language models to analyze Chinese policy documents related to aging and age-friendly governance. The research utilized AI to assist in extracting, classifying, and interpreting policy content, and cross-validated the manual coding process used in traditional qualitative document analysis. This human-machine combined approach enhanced the accuracy and consistency of the analysis.
By reviewing elderly-friendly policy documents across multiple cities, I have formulated several targeted recommendations for improvement. While these suggestions may vary in practical feasibility, they are grounded in the key issues identified during the analysis of current policies. It is my hope that this contribution can stimulate further discussion and help enrich the depth, specificity, and scope of elderly-friendly initiatives in the future.
This study has limitations: Firstly, the data used in this research is limited. Some of the data used in the process is not the latest, such as the GDP data and population structure of various cities. These latest data are not made public by government agencies, so I could only use data from an earlier time.
The second limitation is the method used. Since I used qualitative analysis instead of quantitative analysis (mainly because I did the research alone and didn't have enough energy and time to survey more cities, only investigating 8 cities, resulting in a too small sample size to use statistical analysis), this makes the conclusion less convincing. If there were more talents and research, even offline visits, and more data collected, combining qualitative and quantitative analysis, the conclusion would be more convincing.
The third limitation lies in the fact that this research is mainly based on studies conducted in China. However, if the research process or conclusions are applied to other regions, they may not be very applicable. This is mainly because various conditions in different countries are different. For instance, there are significant differences in aspects such as climate, population structure, and GDP. Using the same method to conduct research in different countries may yield completely different results. Therefore, this point also requires caution.
In future research, a broader range of cities can be selected, not only in terms of quantity but also in terms of geographical coverage, such as including cities from Europe, Asia, America, etc. Such comprehensive analysis data will be more universal and convincing. Even during the process, comparative analysis can be conducted to compare the differences and similarities in aging-friendly policies among cities in different regions, and to analyze the underlying reasons for such results. This will be a significant development prospect for this research in the future.
Acknowledgment
This paper used generative artificial intelligence tool (ChatGPT 5.0) to translate policy documents from Chinese to English and assist in the qualitative data analysis.
References
Appendix A. AI-assisted Assisted qualitative Qualitative data Data Analysis
The following dialogue content is from my conversation with Chat GPT. I hope GPT can rate the ageing-friendly policies of 8 cities in China based on the indicators proposed by WHO.
Prompt: Do you know the 8 dimensions proposed by WHO regarding the policy of "Age-Friendly Cities"(AFC)?
ChatGPT: Yes, according to the eight major standards of WHO AFC:
1. Outdoor spaces and buildings
2. Transportation
3. Housing
4. Social participation
5. Respect and social inclusion
6. Civic participation and employment
7. Communication and information
8. Community support and health services
Prompt: I plan to conduct a comparative study on the relevant policies for the elderly in 8 typical cities in China. I am using the AFC framework of the WHO. My intention is to apply the 8 major criteria to rate each city's policies, and here are my rating standards.
ChatGPT: Received! Your current rating system is a 0–5-point scale, defined as follows:
0 = Not mentioned and not relevant
1 = Only mentioned without detailed instructions
2 = Mentioned with brief instructions
3 = Mentioned with moderate instructions
4 = Mentioned with detailed instructions
5 = Highly emphasized
Prompt: OK. Next, I will provide you with the government websites of 8 cities. You need to carefully read the policy contents and then rate each city in 8 different aspects and organize them into a table. Are you ready?
ChatGPT: Sure! Please send me the government website links of the 8 cities (one link per city, either the main entry page or the specific policy page is fine). After receiving them, I will: 1. Read through each of the formal policies and normative documents related to "aging-friendly/ease of use for the elderly" (prioritizing regulations, measures, and plans, excluding pure press releases); 2. Score them according to your 0–5-point scale in the eight major areas of WHO. 3. Provide evidence excerpts + brief reasons for each city, along with the original link for reference.
Prompt:
Beijing
https://www.beijing.gov.cn/zhengce/zhengcefagui/201905/t20190522_65086.html
https://mzj.beijing.gov.cn/art/2024/10/17/art_10688_3486.html
https://www.beijing.gov.cn/zhengce/zhengcefagui/202105/t20210526_2398635.html
Shanghai
https://mzj.sh.gov.cn/MZ_zhuzhan279_0-2-8-15-55-231/20241025/5558908c70214aa7ba8cddc0ad899312.html
Shenzhen
https://mzj.sz.gov.cn/szmz/pc/zwgk/jcxxgk/zcfg/jjyl/content/post_10622578.html
Qingdao
http://www.qingdao.gov.cn/zwgk/xxgk/bgt/gkml/gwfg/202312/t20231228_7750739.shtml
Wuhan
https://mzj.wuhan.gov.cn/mzdt_912/mzyw/202506/t20250626_2601306.shtml
Chongqing
https://www.cq.gov.cn/zwgk/zfxxgkml/szfwj/qtgw/202203/t20220302_10454863.html
Ha’erbin
https://www.Ha’erbin.gov.cn/haerbin/c104546/202406/c01_995981.shtml
Urumqi
https://www.urumqi.gov.cn/wlmqs/c119167/202402/976321028e044990a83eb9686f1ba545.shtml
ChatGPT：
The following dialogue is the content I obtained through a conversation with Chat GPT. I asked GPT to extract five key words from the elderly-friendly policies of eight cities in China respectively.
Prompt: Based on the policy texts for aging-friendly cities of these eight cities, five key words were sorted out for the policies formulated by each city. The importance of the key words is ranked from high to low. And organize it into a table.
Beijing
https://www.beijing.gov.cn/zhengce/zhengcefagui/201905/t20190522_65086.html
https://mzj.beijing.gov.cn/art/2024/10/17/art_10688_3486.html
https://www.beijing.gov.cn/zhengce/zhengcefagui/202105/t20210526_2398635.html
Shanghai
https://mzj.sh.gov.cn/MZ_zhuzhan2739_0-2-8-15-55/20250407/76db5b96e2694323aeed1dbe35e7a71a.html
Shenzhen
https://mzj.sz.gov.cn/szmz/pc/zwgk/jcxxgk/zcfg/jjyl/content/post_10622578.html
Qingdao
http://www.qingdao.gov.cn/zwgk/xxgk/bgt/gkml/gwfg/202312/t20231228_7750739.shtml
Wuhan
https://mzj.wuhan.gov.cn/mzdt_912/mzyw/202506/t20250626_2601306.shtml
Chongqing
https://www.cq.gov.cn/zwgk/zfxxgkml/szfwj/qtgw/202203/t20220302_10454863.html
Ha’erbin
https://www.Ha’erbin.gov.cn/haerbin/c104546/202406/c01_995981.shtml
Urumqi
https://www.urumqi.gov.cn/wlmqs/c119167/202402/976321028e044990a83eb9686f1ba545.shtml
ChatGPT: