Asia needs millions more long-term care workers to look after its ageing population. Fuelled by increasing life expectancy and falling total fertility rates, the number of people in Asia aged 60 or over will reach 1.3 billion by 2050.
For example, in 1960, the average life expectancy in China was just 44. By 2060, it is expected to reach 83. These older people have more complex conditions, leading to a greater need for long-term care.
In the past, this meant younger people tended to stay close to home to care for their older relatives. But, increasingly, they are moving to cities and seeking out new opportunities.
Women are seeking fulfilling careers and are less likely to take up a traditional caring role. As a result, many older people – especially women, those living in poverty, and in rural areas – cannot access the care they need.
