Care Of Older People In Ancient City As Part Of Community Spirit.

The care of older people, and the respect given to them, was evident from the way that people of different ages would stop to chat with them, as they sat on the streets by their homes. The older people in the Ancient City we visited would probably be cared for with greater attention than the care given to older people in many big cities. Many times during our walk through the streets of the ancient city, we would come across older people, sometimes sitting alone, or sitting with a group of other older people. We stopped to talk to one of these older people, who was sitting on a very low stool, on the street outside her door. When we asked how old she was, she laughed and said 86. Perhaps we should have asked how she was able to get down to sit on such a low stool, and whether she would have any help standing up again!

Traditionally in China, the extended family concept is particularly important in isolated districts, and small communities, such as hutongs, or ''ancient cities''. Grandparents care for young children, then the younger generation care for the older generation. In the western world the care of older people is considered to be the responsibility of the governments. In many ways this becomes an impersonal arrangement. When the care of older people is taken over by their families or friends, it is suggested that the older people enjoy a happier lifestyle.

Just before this photo was taken, a group of four young boys of different ages, had been talking to ''grandma'' seated on her chair by the door of her home. She kept them in view until they were out of sight , but whether they were family members or neighbours, is unknown.

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Chinese Community Care For Older People In Ancient City.