TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan is poised to transform into a super-aged society by 2025, with the percentage of elderly citizens forecasted to exceed 20%, according to a report by the National Development Council.
Living in older apartments without elevators poses significant challenges for seniors with limited mobility. Data reveals that over 750,000 residences in New Taipei City lack elevators, and more than half of the elderly residents grapple with such unfitted living conditions.
In response, numerous counties and cities have introduced the Elderly Housing Exchange Program in recent years. This initiative facilitates seniors in transitioning to socially-equipped housing units with elevators while retaining ownership of their original property.
In New Taipei City, individuals aged 65 and above, owning properties aged 15 years or older, situated on the second floor or higher, qualify for this program. Participants can relocate to socially equivalent residences upon enrollment, with the National Housing and Urban Regeneration Center aiding in subleasing to disadvantaged families.
Despite this, the Elderly Housing Exchange Program has garnered limited interest among seniors, primarily due to the challenge of persuading them to leave their lifelong homes.
Chang Ai-ling, chief operating officer of TMM Snail Social Enterprise, highlighted the emerging feasibility of cross-regional housing exchanges. Seniors can mutually exchange private properties for public housing or non-governmental residences.
As Taiwan advances toward achieving super-aged society status, increased attention is directed toward the well-being of elderly occupants in aged homes. Authorities are actively implementing strategies to enhance the living conditions of the elderly.
Nevertheless, the most substantial hurdle remains: creating incentives that entice a larger number of elderly citizens to participate in housing programs.