A new public welfare project for elderly care was launched on Chaishan Island in Putuo district, Zhoushan, Zhejiang province, on Dec 27, which aims to address the challenges of elderly care on islands and to introduce a new model for island-based elderly services.

In Zhoushan, nearly 71 percent of the elderly population aged 60 years old and above live scattered across 53 islands. Chaishan Island, with a land area of 0.88 square kilometers, has 73 permanent residents – with only two under 60 and 18 over 80 – highlighting a significant need for services like daily care, medical support and emotional companionship.

"The project, supported by the government, is structured around social organizations as the main operators, volunteer teams as the primary service providers and charitable resources as supplementary support, creating a sustainable model for island-based elderly care," explained project leader He Lei.

After five months of trial operations, personalized archives and service plans have been established for the elderly residents of Chaishan Island. The project has also improved their standard of living and created popular facilities such as a public laundry room.

The project is expected to meet a broad range of needs for such things as meals assistance, entertainment, companionship and health monitoring. Volunteers can exchange service hours for free accommodation and other benefits – enhancing the appeal, impact, and sustainability of island-based elderly care services.