As China's population ages at an unprecedented rate, Peking University Professor Hu Yong is urging society to fundamentally rethink its perception of older adults. In a recent interview with CGTN's PAGE X program, Hu emphasized that viewing seniors through a lens of fragility overlooks their enduring potential for growth and contribution.
"Let's truly see the elderly around us," said Hu, drawing from his personal experiences caring for aging parents. He cited Qian Liqun's book Yang Lao Ren Sheng (A Life in Old Age), which challenges stereotypes by highlighting seniors' capacity for creative thinking and personal fulfillment.
New data from China's National Health Commission underscores the urgency: average life expectancy reached 79 years in 2024, up 1.1 years since 2020. This demographic shift presents both challenges and opportunities for Asia's largest economy.
Hu's call for compassion and understanding resonates beyond academia. "Their potential should never be underestimated," he noted, advocating for policies and social frameworks that enable seniors to remain active participants in society rather than passive recipients of care.
The discussion forms part of CGTN's PAGE X series, which connects public intellectuals with global audiences through literary exploration. While focused on China's experience, the conversation reflects broader regional trends as Asia's population pyramid undergoes dramatic transformation.
