Taiwan prepares for super-aged society and rising care needs

Taiwan is rapidly transitioning into a super-aged society due to declining birth rates and increased life expectancy. This demographic shift is placing significant pressure on medical, caregiving, and social welfare systems. As family sizes shrink and dual-income households become the norm, the traditional model of full-time family caregiving is becoming increasingly difficult to sustain, driving a higher demand for professional long-term care services.

In response to the risks associated with aging, health authorities are emphasizing fall prevention. With the elderly population in Taiwan exceeding 4.6 million, falls remain the second leading cause of accidental injury deaths among seniors. Health officials recommend three key strategies for preventing falls during seasonal activities, such as purchasing ritual offerings: avoiding heavy lifting, maintaining clear and dry walking paths, and ensuring seniors are accompanied by others to avoid solo accidents.

To mitigate disability risks, the Health Promotion Administration is encouraging seniors to undergo assessments of six core internal capabilities: cognition, mobility, nutrition, vision, hearing, and emotion. Regular exercise and balanced nutrition are also highlighted as essential components for maintaining physical function and quality of life in an aging population.