Top court focuses on settling disputes among older adults

China's top court has directed judges to assess age-friendly services in an effort to resolve disputes involving senior citizens and to help them gain more benefits from rapid societal and technological development.

The Supreme People's Court issued the directive last week, citing six concluded lawsuits involving seniors and urging courts nationwide to improve case handling to enhance their sense of fulfillment, happiness and security.

One lawsuit involved an elderly woman and a nursing agency. She provided nursing services through the company but was denied payment after failing to upload correct photos on its online platform due to her limited internet proficiency. The woman, surnamed Wang, filed a lawsuit against the agency, demanding either her wages or compensation for financial losses.

The case was eventually resolved through mediation. However, given that many online platforms are not user-friendly for older adults, the court recommended that such platforms be upgraded to improve accessibility for seniors.

The top court praised this judicial suggestion, emphasizing that practical and simplified online operations could enhance employment opportunities for older caregivers.

"The optimization of online services will also help bridge the digital divide between advanced technology developers and senior citizens," the court added.

In another case, the court clarified that people should not unreasonably interfere with their elderly parents' handling of assets.

The case involved a woman, surnamed Xu, who lived with her son after her house was demolished. She entrusted her son with 700,000 yuan ($95,900) in savings, intended for future nursing care and medical treatment.

After a conflict, Xu sought to retrieve her savings, but her son refused. Following several unsuccessful negotiations, she took him to court. The court ruled in Xu's favor, affirming her right to manage her own assets.

"Chinese laws grant elderly citizens with full civil capability the right to dispose of their property independently, and others, including their children, must respect this right," the court said, adding that the ruling provides guidance for resolving similar disputes.

The top court earlier highlighted judicial efforts to promote the healthy development of the nursing home industry. It clarified that nursing homes would be held liable for injuries resulting from their failure to provide a barrier-free environment for elderly residents.

Additionally, older litigants with difficulties filling out legal documents are permitted to initiate lawsuits orally. Seniors with limited mobility can file cases from home or over the phone, and courts have increasingly provided barrier-free facilities to improve access for the elderly.

caoyin@chinadaily.com.cn