An iconic view of May Fourth Square in Qingdao's Shinan district, where the vibrant red sculpture meets the open sea and modern skyline. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

In Qingdao's Shinan district, a quiet transformation is underway as the growing senior care sector becomes a new engine of growth, reshaping how the city supports its aging population. On a sunny afternoon in late March, the Taibao Qingdao International Wellness Community was filled with music and laughter, as residents gathered around a piano, singing familiar songs and enjoying a vibrant, shared moment.

Built on an integrated insurance-backed care model, the community combines health management, rehabilitation services, and smart technologies to provide comprehensive, one-stop support for seniors with diverse needs.

Since opening in February 2024, more than 150 residents have moved in, with the occupancy rate now exceeding 80 percent. Services range from daily care and tailored nutrition to cultural activities and personalized health plans, supporting both independent and assisted-living residents.

Shinan district has more than 170,000 residents aged 60 and above, accounting for 35 percent of its registered population. In response, local authorities have introduced policies to expand elderly care services, encourage participation from state-owned and social providers, and build a multi-tiered system offering basic, inclusive, and high-end options.

At the community level, services continue to improve. A senior-friendly canteen near the Badaguan area has served over 15,000 visits, offering fresh, easy-to-chew meals and addressing daily dining needs.

Today, Shinan is also promoting deeper integration between healthcare and elderly services through partnerships with leading hospitals, enabling seniors to move from reactive treatment to proactive health management.