A new survey shows that more than half of China's old folks would rather live alone than with their children.

"Care for Elders," a survey jointly sponsored by the China National Committee on Aging and China Youth Daily, asked 20,000 people, both young and old, what senior citizens need to lead contented lives.

The survey found that half of the polled old people prefer to live in the same area with their children, but not in the same building or even close by. They said it is better for them to maintain their independence while remaining in frequent contact with their kids.

Experts on aging say the answer reflects the disintegration of the traditional idea of a big family.

Meanwhile, 73 percent of those surveyed said they would not want to live in a nursing home. They said they looked forward to more community services specially designed for them. Some of the services they listed were help with household chores and medical care, assistance with shopping, and having people to talk to.

The investigators concluded that old people are generally satisfied with their children's care for them. Seven out of ten young people host birthday parties for their parents, and as many made regular phone calls home.

Li Baoku, president of the committee and also vice minister of civil affairs, said that using the survey responses as a guide, China will establish more community services and facilities for the elders.

(Xinhua News Agency January 3, 2002)