China’s grassroots medicare services and rural medical insurance cover are to be expanded to meet the demands of the country’s ageing population and improve standards of healthcare among the elderly.

The Chinese Ministry of Health says the number of people over 60 reached 178 million by the end of 2010, accounting for about 13 percent of the country’s total population.

At a press conference, the ministry announced plans to deepen medical reforms, enhancing health service provision for the elderly and stepping up measures for the prevention of chronic diseases. The new plans include expansion of hospital and rehabilitation services, as well as care centers to meet the growing need.

As today marks World Mental Health Day, the ministry has announced its investment of 6 million yuan to train mental health professionals in 2011-2012. Over the last two years, China has invested 15.4 million yuan in mental health support services. The latest statistics say around 4 percent of China’s elderly population now suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, with 4.4 percent of people over 65 in China’s capital suffering some form of depression.

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