On October 15, in Linfen, Shanxi Province, a recent development aimed at enhancing the quality of life for elderly residents has sparked significant interest. We had the opportunity to speak with some local seniors about the new mutual aid center established in their village.
“Since all my children have gone away for work, I come here for lunch every day. It only costs me 50 cents, and the food is delicious with plenty of options,” shared 75-year-old Shan Wujin from Lian Village.
Lian Village, located 15 kilometers from the county seat in the northeast part of Daining Township, has a population of 117 residents, including 26 seniors aged 75 and over. This year, the village has taken an initiative by pooling resources to create a mutual aid center for the elderly, utilizing space voluntarily provided by local families. This center aims to help seniors enjoy their later years together, without the need to leave their village.
In fact, the Lian Village Elderly Mutual Aid Center officially opened on August 21, 2024. It operates on a voluntary basis and offers services to elderly residents aged 75 and above who wish to enjoy communal meals. From Monday to Friday, seniors can enjoy a nutritious lunch for just 0.5 yuan.
The center’s staff is recommended by the elders themselves, ensuring a friendly and comfortable environment. Regular sanitization of tables and utensils is conducted, and additional services such as daily care, housekeeping, psychological counseling, and health care are available for those in need, allowing seniors to thrive in a supportive atmosphere.
Jing Rulin, another village elder, expressed, “Since the mutual aid center opened, I come here daily not just for the great food, but also for the company.” He noted that besides offering meals, the center also monitors health by regularly checking blood pressure, blood sugar, and heart rates among the seniors.
Moreover, the mutual aid center maintains a detailed health record for each senior, with weekly physical check-ups conducted by village medical staff. They also offer community services like free haircuts, mutual assistance among neighbors, and mental health support primarily provided by volunteer college students.
The primary goal behind the establishment of this center is to ensure that elderly residents feel comfortable and secure, while also giving peace of mind to their children who work far from home. Li Yonghong, the village Party Committee Secretary, stated, “In the future, we will continually enhance the comprehensive services offered by the mutual aid center, improve facilities, and train staff in medical care, communication skills, and etiquette. Our aim is to develop a multifaceted, standardized, and regulated management approach for the center so that more and more elderly individuals can enjoy a fulfilling and happy retirement.”