China to build 100 intelligent bases for the old

BEIJING - China plans to build 100 high-tech nursing homes for its old age population within 10 years, the China National Committee on Ageing (CNCA) revealed on Monday.

Construction of the first building began on Monday in Beijing. The home will cover an area of 86,115 square meters and is aimed to create a modern mode for boosting the quality of life for the old people.

The high-tech system will feature modern communication and computer technologies. It will provide various services for the elderly, including medical care, education and entertainment facilities, said Zhu Yong, deputy head of the CNCA.

The system can also provide customized services according to different needs such as personalized rehabilitation and mental care, Zhu said.

China had about 185 million people above the age of 60 as of the end of last year. The figure is expected to surge to 221 million in 2015.