Ever feel like someone next door is being overlooked? 👀 Let’s turn our gaze to the older generation – the stories, the ideas, the untapped potential. Professor Hu Yong of Peking University reminds us: “Let’s truly see the elderly around us.”
As the Chinese mainland transitions to a rapidly aging society, voices like Hu’s are more urgent than ever. According to figures released by the National Health Commission of the Chinese mainland, average life expectancy hit 79 years by the end of 2024 – up 1.1 years since 2020. That means more people are living their golden years, and our communities need to keep pace with this change.
Too often, we label older adults as fragile or stuck in the past. But Hu points to Qian Liqun’s book “Yang Lao Ren Sheng” (“A Life in Old Age”), which celebrates how creative thinking doesn’t end at 60, 70 or beyond. Imagine your favorite content creator in their 80s dropping life hacks on YouTube – that’s the spark we should be encouraging! 💡
For many in South and Southeast Asia, family ties and respect for elders run deep – whether it’s chai sessions with Dadi in Delhi or iftar gatherings with Opah in Kuala Lumpur. 🤝 So why not bring our elders into bigger conversations? A quick WhatsApp video call, a joint podcast episode or inviting them to a local community event can bridge generations and unlock a wealth of experience.
Seeing the unseen isn’t just about respect; it’s about tapping into a rich pool of wisdom and fresh ideas. Let’s make space for genuine chats – from tech trends and sustainability tips to life lessons and cultural stories. Growing older doesn’t mean growing quiet. 🌱
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
