An NPC deputy’s persisting bond with senior citizens through caregiving-Xinhua

ABA, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) — Gexi Wangmu, a deputy to the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC), serves as the director of an elderly care center in Maerkang City. As a “post-90s” NPC deputy who started out as a frontline elderly care worker, Gexi has dedicated 16 years to her profession. In 2021, she was awarded the title of “outstanding elderly care worker” by the Sichuan Provincial Department of Civil Affairs. From ensuring the elderly’s daily care and meals to leading them in fitness exercises and helping with nail care, Gexi puts equal importance on both emotional and physical care for the elderly.

In the course of her service as an NPC deputy, Gexi has actively worked to bridge the gap between policymakers and the public. She did in-depth research on topics such as enhancing vocational training and improving compensation for elderly care workers, while gathering public feedback and submitting legislative proposals. She also consulted with civil affairs departments about latest national policies and visited rural communities for a better understanding of the realities facing the senior population, with a particular focus on the concerns of “left-behind” elderly rural residents in need of care services.

As an NPC deputy from the Tibetan ethnic group, Gexi will focus on issues such as raising pension insurance standards for rural seniors and increasing government subsidies for residents’ basic medical insurance in ethnic minority areas during the upcoming third session of the 14th NPC.

“My sense of fulfillment comes from the deep trust and affection I share with the seniors. I will continue this mission to help them enjoy their ‘golden years’ to the fullest,” said Gexi.