On December 16, Liu Chunlai, a resident of Shijiazhuang's Shuangguan Yuan neighborhood, arrived at the Liuying Subdistrict Regional Senior Care Center located north of his community. Soon, his table tennis buddies joined him for their regular matches.

"Old Liu, I accidentally lost to you yesterday—today I'm determined to win!" teased 69-year-old Li Shumian as she warmed up. "Bring it on! Let's see who's better today," replied 74-year-old Liu, stretching before their game. Spectators cheered as the two played, embodying the lively atmosphere Liu had long wished for.

Five years ago, as age limited his outdoor activities and childcare duties for his daughter ended, Liu sought to revive his passion for table tennis. "After retiring, playing in parks was inconvenient—too far and exposed to weather," he recalled. The senior care center's dedicated table tennis room became their new gathering spot, turning into a second home where they meet daily.

Operated by Hebei Puai Senior Care Services, the 750-square-meter center offers dance studios, libraries, fitness rooms, and rehabilitation facilities. "This embedded community center provides care, recreation, health services, and education," explained director Li Yan.

Hebei Province has strengthened its three-tier elderly care network, integrating home, community, and institutional support with medical services. Currently, 2,022 senior care facilities offer 266,000 beds—a 17.5% and 13.2% increase over five years.

Residents like Li Shumian praise the center: "Air conditioning in summer, heating in winter, meals, doctors on call, plus fun activities—it's our happy space!" Liu, once plagued by poor health post-retirement, now climbs five flights effortlessly. "Exercising here restored my vitality," he said.

Beyond physical health, the center fosters social bonds. Retirees form interest groups for yoga, choir, dance, and reading. "Our dance team rehearses here and even performs publicly," shared Cao Shufeng proudly.

Medical integration adds security. "When an elder fainted from low blood sugar, doctors downstairs treated them immediately," Li Yan noted. The adjacent clinic maintains health records and monthly lectures, ensuring professional care.

Personalized support shines through—staff teach smartphone use, clean homes, and provide emotional comfort. "They treat us like family," Liu said. The center also delivers home modifications (wheelchair ramps, bathroom rails) and nursing visits, benefiting over 100 households.

During the 14th Five-Year Plan period, Hebei established 5,946 community care facilities, 25,000 home care beds, and 50,000+ in-home service visits—bringing quality aging care to doorsteps across the province.