The Chinese government has published a list of 24 guidelines on how to take better care of parents. They are a modern update to 24 old stories about respectful children from the Yuan Dynasty.
The guidelines list 24 things to do with parents, including giving them a call every week, teaching them to use the internet, and supporting single parents’ remarriage. Though these may not suit everyone, the underlying idea of taking better care of parents not only through financial support but with closer communication, has struck a cord with many.
"I am very busy with work and my own family, that I may have ignored my parents. It’s good to be reminded, and we should talk to our parents more."
"Our young people should keep alive this Chinese tradition. My son is very good to me, that’s why I am so healthy. I am 84 year old!"
The guidelines stem from a Yuan Dynasty book, about 24 filial-hearted children who treated their parents very well. It is at the core of Chinese culture to value family and the older generation. And experts say it’s a value younger generations should never forget.
Liu Shinan, Senior Editor, China Daily, said, "It’s THIS concept that encourages the whole nation to be united as one, in the face of disasters, wars and hardships."
Statistics show more than 10% of population is above 60 years old. And more than half of elderly parents live alone. Frequent overtime work demands and few holidays make it difficult for people to find time for their parents. But apart from family support, more people are expecting better elderly care from the government. The ageing population presents a much wider social concern.
"Most families only have one child. Caring for the elderly puts a big pressure on young people. It’s so important to increase social pension, now that we can’t afford to go to an elderly care center."