Who will care for the health of aging Chinese parents who lose their only child? A review of the constraints and implications

This article concentrates on analyzing the health and social constraints of elderly Chinese parents who lose their only child. This newly developed vulnerable group of childless elderly has resulted from the Chinese one-child policy. Based on a qualitative study in Beijing, this article examines the psychological suffering, healthcare, and emotional support experienced by older people who lose their only child and who lack appropriate support from the government and society. The rapid increase in the number of childless elderly is producing profound health and social implications that require the development of appropriate policies in China.