China elder care sector plugs smart gadgets to fill workforce gaps

With internet-connected sleep monitors, robotic arms and calorie-counting cafeteria plates, China's elder care industry is hoping that automation will provide the solution to an ageing population and a shrinking workforce.

Hundreds of retirees were among visitors to a crowded industry fair in Shanghai this week, thronging booths touting everything from luxury retirement homes to physiotherapy robots. An employee of Shenzhen-based tech firm said if retirees have this device, they can save labour costs. In addition, the data detected by the device is more accurate and does not need to be confirmed manually.