QINGDAO aims to improve its social security system for senior citizens in the next five year, according to a recently released government plan.

    According to the plan, seniors are expected to see better medical treatment, special subsidies and other benefits.

    The city will gradually raise the monthly pension for senior citizens in the next five years. Besides, people aged 60 or above will be covered by the city’s endowment insurance.

    Subsidies will be given to low-income people who are aged above 80 or have serious illnesses, according to the plan.

    Meanwhile, the city will consider giving extra monthly subsides to people aged 80 or above.

    The plan also includes encouraging social capital to be invested in the service industry for seniors.

    The city will strive to build a service center for senior citizens in each of its subdistricts and towns by 2015.

    In terms of medical service, more than 80 percent of people aged 60 or above are expected to have their own health files by 2015.

    Plus, more than 20 schools for senior citizens are expected to be constructed by 2015 to cover each district. More than 60 percent of residential communities will provide free education to the elderly.(Li Hao, Li Lili)