Political advisors in China are calling for the improvement of the mental health care services given to the country's elderly.

More than 16 percent of China's total population was accounted for by the elderly in 2015. More than 220 million people in China were older than 60 at the time, and by 2025, it is expected that the number will grow to about 300 million, reports CRIEnglish.

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Recently, a poll conducted in Suzhou showed that 12.5 percent of 1,000 elderly participants had mental disorders. Almost 90 percent of them said that they would rather receive psychological care instead of material support.

Peking University professor Rao Geping, who is a political advisor, said that the current demand for mental health care among the elderly has risen. However, the support given to the area is not following the rise.

He said that more people who are knowledgeable about the matter, such as psychologists, should be made available for the purpose.

The deputy head of the social and legal affairs committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, Zhang Shiping, also advocated for the improvement of mental health care services given to the elderly, saying that many things will be done for their benefit.

Zhang, who is also a political advisor, said that at least 70 percent of the elderly suffer from chronic diseases, and many also suffer from mental disorders.

Other Efforts

Li Hongbing, deputy director of the Beijing Civil Affairs Bureau, said that the Bureau's hotline for the elderly was able to help prevent suicide, mental deterioration and also helped the elderly manage their emotions following loss.

Li Zan, who is a councilor in the Beijing Shifangyuan Elderly Hospice and Mind Care Center, knows the need that the elderly have. So far, Li's non-profit group has opened 18 institutes for the elderly and has given healthcare and support to more than 54 communities.

"As people get older, and their health decays, their demand for psychological consolation will also rise," Li said.

Tagselderly, mental health, Peking University, Rao Geping, Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, Zhang Shiping, Beijing Shifangyuan Elderly Hospice and Mind Care Center, Beijing Civil Affairs Bureau