As Taiwan approaches becoming a super-aged society in 2025, a critical question emerges: Are we prepared not just financially, but physically and mentally for the years ahead?
The answer lies not in last-minute interventions, but in cultivating healthy habits starting today. Among the most effective approaches is Qigong—a gentle, holistic practice that offers significant health benefits regardless of when you begin.
Redefining What It Means to Age
At the 2024 Ultimate Solutions for a Super-Aged Society forum hosted by CommonHealth Magazine, Minister without Portfolio Chen Shih-chung offered a perspective that challenges conventional thinking about aging:
“In the future, there will be no such thing as ‘elderly people’—only healthy people and unhealthy people.”
This reframing shifts our focus from age as a number to health as a state we can actively influence. Chen shared the story of his aunt approaching her 100th birthday, whose longevity secret proved remarkably straightforward: consistent exercise and caring for others.
Chen’s personal journey reinforces this message. Beginning weight training at 71, he discovered an essential truth—maintaining health requires far less effort than recovering it once lost. This insight underscores the value of gentle, sustainable practices like Qigong, which can be integrated into daily life at any age.
A National Shift Toward Prevention
The forum also unveiled a significant policy change. Starting this past August, the National Health Insurance Administration began covering lifestyle counseling services for patients with high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and high cholesterol. Director-General Shih Chung-liang explained that this represents a fundamental shift in healthcare philosophy—from treating illness to preventing it.
The program centers on six pillars of lifestyle medicine:
• Balanced nutrition
• Regular physical activity
• Avoiding harmful substances
• Sleep management
• Stress management
• Building healthy social relationships
These principles align remarkably well with Qigong practice, which naturally incorporates movement, stress reduction, improved sleep quality, and social connection through group sessions.
The timing is significant—the top five drug categories covered by National Health Insurance include diabetes, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, constipation, and insomnia, all conditions that respond well to lifestyle modifications.
The 40-Year Benchmark and Beyond
Nan Shan Life Insurance’s “Active Aging” strategy recommends that people begin building their health capital at age 40. While this provides a useful milestone, the reality is simpler: the best time to start is now, regardless of your current age.
According to Vice Minister of Health and Welfare Lü Chien-te, National Health Insurance data reveals that:
• 70% of Taiwan’s elderly population maintains good health
• 20% exist in a sub-healthy state
• 3.95% experience disability
The goal is clear—keep people in the healthy category and help those in the sub-healthy zone recover before conditions worsen.
Why Qigong Works
Qigong offers several advantages as a health practice:
• Accessibility: It requires no special equipment and can be practiced anywhere
• Gentleness: The low-impact movements suit people of all fitness levels
• Holistic benefits: It addresses physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing simultaneously
• Sustainability: The practice can be maintained throughout life
• Community: Group sessions provide social connection and mutual support
The practice helps practitioners harmonize body and mind while developing awareness of how to care for themselves and others. This makes it more than just exercise—it becomes a way of life that supports long-term health.
Taking Action
Maintaining good health in a super-aged society isn’t just a personal concern—it’s a social responsibility that affects healthcare systems and community wellbeing. By taking proactive steps now, we can reduce future burdens while improving our quality of life.
Whether you’re in your twenties or already retired, starting a gentle practice like Qigong offers an opportunity to invest in your future health. The “health dividends” begin accumulating from day one, helping you stay energetic, joyful, and independent as you age.
The message from health experts is clear: prevention beats treatment, maintenance is easier than recovery, and the time to act is now. Your health is your most valuable asset—start saving it today.
