A visitor interacts with a robot dog during the International Exhibition of Senior Care, Rehabilitation Medicine and Healthcare Shanghai 2026. LIU XIN/FOR CHINA DAILY
China's silver consumption is rapidly shifting from basic subsistence spending to quality-oriented enjoyment consumption, a prominent industrial trend fully demonstrated at the International Exhibition of Senior Care, Rehabilitation Medicine and Healthcare Shanghai 2026 (AID 2026).
With 323 million people aged 60 and above nationwide — 23 percent of the total population, and with 37.6 percent of Shanghai's registered population over 60, demand for smarter, safer senior care products is surging. AI-powered domestic devices are leading the industry's comprehensive upgrade, driven by technological advances and robust supply chains.
The expo — held from June 4 to 6 — showcased unprecedented AI penetration in senior care products. Hong Liang, a representative at the Shanghai Civil Affairs (Group) booth, highlighted the sector's dramatic transformation.
"AI application in eldercare products has reached a much higher level this year. Intelligent systems enable far more powerful data analysis and adaptive adjustments than manual operations," Hong said. "Traditional electric wheelchairs can no longer meet current demands. Elderly visitors and their families now prioritize AI-powered wheelchairs and exoskeletons to solve pain points such as stair-climbing difficulties and limited mobility."
