Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

No Time For Brain Decline - Lifestyle Habits That Reduce The Risk Of Dementia In Older Adults

The interesting thing about people is how unique everyone’s perspectives are. Everyone has their way of thinking, their own way of doing things as well as their own unique memories. These aspects make us human and set us apart from everyone. Can you imagine losing all of these because of a disease that robs you of your cognitive abilities? <span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/dementia">Dementia</a></span> is not as uncommon as we think it is. Affecting millions, we are yet to find a cure for this disease. While researchers have identified risk factors, does changing them make any difference? 

A new study asked an important question: Can making specific changes to our daily lives actually improve or protect our thinking skills as we get older, especially for those who might be at risk of memory problems or dementia? 

This study involved over 2,100 older adults who faced a higher chance of their thinking skills declining. We compared two different groups over two years. One group followed a well-organized plan for healthy living. This plan included regular moderate to intense exercise, sticking to a special "MIND diet," doing activities that challenge the brain and encourage spending time with others, and regular checks on heart health. The other group got a less organized plan that they had to follow more on their own. 

This was a big study where neither the participants nor the initial assessors knew which group someone was in. It took place in 5 different medical centers across the U.S. from 2019 to 2023. We included 2,111 people between 60 and 79 years old who weren't very active and didn't eat the best diet. To make sure we studied people truly at risk, they also had to have at least two other risk factors, like a family history of memory issues, heart problems, or just being older. 

<ul><li>Structured Group, who received a detailed, ongoing plan for exercise, diet, brain-challenging activities, social time, and heart health checks. They had more guidance and were regularly checked on. </li><li></li><li>Self-Guided Group, who got general advice on the same healthy lifestyle areas but had less structure and fewer regular check-ins.</li></ul>

The main goal was to see how much a person's overall thinking ability changed each year over the two-year study. We used a combined score that looked at different brain skills like planning, remembering things, and how quickly their brain worked. 

Out of all the people who started, almost 90% finished the two-year assessment. Both groups showed some improvement in their thinking scores over time. However, the structured group's improvement was clearly bigger than the self-guided group's. 

Interestingly, the benefits of the structured program were helpful whether or not a person carried a specific gene (APOE 4) linked to Alzheimer's risk. But, the structured program seemed to help those who had lower thinking abilities at the beginning of the study even more. 

We also kept track of any problems or side effects. The structured group actually reported fewer serious and non-serious problems compared to the self-guided group. The most common health issue overall was getting COVID-19.

The results clearly showed that the organized group had a noticeably better improvement in their overall thinking abilities. Their brain scores went up more each year compared to the group that followed the less organized plan. This means that having a structured approach made a bigger positive difference for their brains. 

The findings suggest that if you're an older adult at risk of memory problems, a structured, more involved healthy lifestyle plan is more helpful for your thinking skills than trying to do it all on your own with less guidance. We still need more research to see how much these brain improvements affect daily life and if they last for many years. 

It's really important to find ways to slow down or prevent memory loss that can lead to dementia. Things we can do in our daily lives, like changing our habits, are promising because they are usually affordable, easy to access, and safe. They offer a good way to protect our brains without relying on medicines alone.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

dementia

Lifestyle Habits to reduce dementia risk

how to  Reduce The Risk Of Dementia

risk of dementia

dementia risk

healthy lifestyle habits for demetia

What Doctors Say During Your First Ultrasound Could Shape How You Parent Your Child

Can AI Diagnose Chronic Fatigue Syndrome In Patients? Hint, Your Gut Plays A Role In This

Eating More Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to 41% Higher Lung Cancer Risk, Study

Health & Wellness

Positive Thinking Practice – How Does It Help You?

MIND Diet – Is This A Healthy Diet Or Another Trend?

Yoga Prop Essentials To Improve Your Exercise Session

Should Potatoes Be The Part Of A Healthy Diet?

Best And Worst Foods To Lower Blood Pressure

Low-Impact Cardio Workouts You Should Try

10 Healthy Pasta Salad Dressing For Weight Loss

Breathing Exercise You Should Do To Relieve Stress

Headache vs. Migraine: Difference Explained In 60 Seconds

High Carb Foods That Are Actually Healthy

How Many Times Do You Need To Wash Your Face?

Hypothyroidism Diet – What To Eat And What You Should Avoid

Stretches To Relieve Leg Pain And Numbness After Sitting For Too Long

No-Cook Healthy Meals For Lazy Days At Home

Easy Breakfast Options To Try During Calorie Deficit

How To Stop Muscle Cramps Immediately

Why You Should Go For An Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Foods To Lower Cortisol Levels In Your Body

High-Fiber Dips You Can Make At Home For The Week

Weekend Warrior Exercises To Makeup For Stressful Week

Experiencing Headaches At Word? Natural Remedies To Try

Yoga Poses That Enhance Digestion

Health Benefits of Walking Backwards

No Eggs? Egg-Alternatives You Can Add To Your Diet

Savory And Smart Ways To Add Broccoli To Your Diet

Calorie Burning Habits That Can Help You Shed Extra Pounds

Yoga Poses That Can Help With Bloating

Fiber-Rich Oatmeal Dishes You Can Have For Breakfast

Signs You Must Visit A Doctor For Your Back Pain

Avocado Meal Prep Ideas To Increase Healthy Fat In Your Diet

Arm Exercises You Can Do At Home

Quick-Office Lunches That Can Keep You Full-Longer

How Increased Screen Time Affects Children's Health

Homemade Recipe To Make Protein-Rich Pancakes With Healthy Alternatives

Push-Up Variations You Can Do At Home

Common Mistakes Running Mistakes People Make

Low-Calorie Foods That Keep You Full For Long

Yoga Poses That Help You Get Rid Of Back Pain

Natural Ways To Increase Protein In Your Diet

Managing Excessive Daytime Sleepiness – Tips To Try

The interesting thing about people is how unique everyone’s perspectives are. Everyone has their way of thinking, their own way of doing things as well as their own unique memories. These aspects make us human and set us apart from everyone. Can you imagine losing all of these because of a disease that robs you of your cognitive abilities? Dementia is not as uncommon as we think it is. Affecting millions, we are yet to find a cure for this disease. While researchers have identified risk factors, does changing them make any difference? A new study asked an important question: Can making specific changes to our daily lives actually improve or protect our thinking skills as we get older, especially for those who might be at risk of memory problems or dementia? Organized Efforts Work Better This study involved over 2,100 older adults who faced a higher chance of their thinking skills declining. We compared two different groups over two years. One group followed a well-organized plan for healthy living. This plan included regular moderate to intense exercise, sticking to a special "MIND diet," doing activities that challenge the brain and encourage spending time with others, and regular checks on heart health. The other group got a less organized plan that they had to follow more on their own. This was a big study where neither the participants nor the initial assessors knew which group someone was in. It took place in 5 different medical centers across the U.S. from 2019 to 2023. We included 2,111 people between 60 and 79 years old who weren't very active and didn't eat the best diet. To make sure we studied people truly at risk, they also had to have at least two other risk factors, like a family history of memory issues, heart problems, or just being older. Structured Group, who received a detailed, ongoing plan for exercise, diet, brain-challenging activities, social time, and heart health checks. They had more guidance and were regularly checked on. Self-Guided Group, who got general advice on the same healthy lifestyle areas but had less structure and fewer regular check-ins.The main goal was to see how much a person's overall thinking ability changed each year over the two-year study. We used a combined score that looked at different brain skills like planning, remembering things, and how quickly their brain worked. Results of the Study Out of all the people who started, almost 90% finished the two-year assessment. Both groups showed some improvement in their thinking scores over time. However, the structured group's improvement was clearly bigger than the self-guided group's. Interestingly, the benefits of the structured program were helpful whether or not a person carried a specific gene (APOE 4) linked to Alzheimer's risk. But, the structured program seemed to help those who had lower thinking abilities at the beginning of the study even more. We also kept track of any problems or side effects. The structured group actually reported fewer serious and non-serious problems compared to the self-guided group. The most common health issue overall was getting COVID-19.What This Means for You The results clearly showed that the organized group had a noticeably better improvement in their overall thinking abilities. Their brain scores went up more each year compared to the group that followed the less organized plan. This means that having a structured approach made a bigger positive difference for their brains. The findings suggest that if you're an older adult at risk of memory problems, a structured, more involved healthy lifestyle plan is more helpful for your thinking skills than trying to do it all on your own with less guidance. We still need more research to see how much these brain improvements affect daily life and if they last for many years. It's really important to find ways to slow down or prevent memory loss that can lead to dementia. Things we can do in our daily lives, like changing our habits, are promising because they are usually affordable, easy to access, and safe. They offer a good way to protect our brains without relying on medicines alone.

no time for brain decline - lifestyle habits that reduce the risk of dementia in older adults

Ultrasound Words Can Impact How Parents See Their Children - First Impressions Matter, Even For Babies

Parenting

Expecting Soon? A New Research Suggests That Your Baby's Sex Is Not Random

expecting soon? a new research suggests that your baby's sex is not random

Children’s Brain Development Sees Improvement With More ‘Green Time’ - Study Finds

children’s brain development sees improvement with more ‘green time’ - study finds

Children's Health Has Declined Significantly In The Past Decade - What Caused This And Can It Improve?

children's health has declined significantly in the past decade - what caused this and can it improve?

Grieving The Loss Of A Loved One Too Intensely Can Double The Risk Of Early Death

grieving the loss of a loved one too intensely can double the risk of early death

First impressions can be deceiving, but they can also set the tone for your future interactions. A person who you perceive to be difficult will remain so in your eyes, until they actively prove otherwise. If that person keeps behaving as he is, even if their actions are not always unjustifiable, one finds ways to back their beliefs. Did you know this could also apply to babies, even before they are born? 

A recent study done by researchers at University of Notre Dame suggests that the way medical staff talk during an ultrasound can really influence how <span>new parents</span> feel about their baby. For many people, the ultrasound is the very first time they get a glimpse of their child. If a technician blames a poor image on the baby being "uncooperative," this small comment can set a negative tone. 

This kind of language can stick with parents, affecting how they see their child even before birth and possibly leading to less involved <span>parenting</span> later on. The study, published in Communications Psychology, highlights how these seemingly small word choices can have a lasting impact.

<h2>How Early <span rel="noindex">Perceptions Affect Parenting</span>?</h2>

The research found a clear connection between how mothers felt about their baby during pregnancy and how they viewed their toddler later on. Women who had a more positive view of their unborn child during the study reported fewer emotional or behavioral issues in their children at 18 months old. 

On the other hand, mothers who had a more negative view of their unborn baby were more likely to report that their toddlers had trouble with things like attention, managing their emotions, and sleeping. This link was shown in an experiment where mothers who were told their baby was "uncooperative" were more likely to have a negative view of their child later.

<h2>Does A Child’s Behavior Affect Parents’ Bond? </h2>

Previous research has shown that a baby’s behavior can affect how the parents see them. According to the Frontiers in Public Health connection between how parents perceive their baby's behavior and the parents' own mental health and bonding with the baby. Researchers surveyed 73 mothers of infants between 3.5 weeks and 6 months old. The study found that when mothers reported their infants had frequent stomach or crying issues, they were also more likely to have: 

<ul><li>Bonding issues with their baby</li><li>Higher levels of anxiety</li><li>Higher levels of depression</li></ul>

The researchers believe that asking parents about their baby's behavior could be a simple way for healthcare professionals to identify mothers who need extra support and babies who may need additional help. 

This study highlighted a new way for doctors and nurses to help new parents. Instead of only looking at risk factors like a parent's age, they could use simple questionnaires to ask about a parent's perception of their baby's behavior. This approach could make it easier to find families who need support, ensuring they get targeted help more quickly and efficiently. 

This could lead to better relationships between parents and their babies and improve a child's long-term outcomes. The study also emphasizes the need for more research, particularly with larger, more diverse groups of people, to better understand these connections. 

<h2>Importance of Mindful Communication </h2>

The findings of this study show just how important it is for healthcare providers to be careful with their words. Simple comments made during a critical moment like an ultrasound can have a lasting impact on parents. 

The gap between patients and their healthcare professionals widen when communication lacks. This was shown in a 2020 survey published in the JAMA Open Network. The study found that more than 41% of women reported holding back from asking their clinicians questions during prenatal appointments. They reported several reasons for their reluctance like the clinician seemed rushed, they didn’t want to seem difficult, as well as preference to a different plan than what the clinicians wanted. 

This careful communication could even play a role in a mother's risk for postpartum depression. Since the bond between a parent and child begins to form so early, a negative experience during an ultrasound could potentially affect this crucial relationship, influencing the well-being of both the parent and the child over time.

Perceptions Affect Parenting

uncooperative children

infant parenting

new parents

communication with new parents

First impressions can be deceiving, but they can also set the tone for your future interactions. A person who you perceive to be difficult will remain so in your eyes, until they actively prove otherwise. If that person keeps behaving as he is, even if their actions are not always unjustifiable, one finds ways to back their beliefs. Did you know this could also apply to babies, even before they are born? A recent study done by researchers at University of Notre Dame suggests that the way medical staff talk during an ultrasound can really influence how new parents feel about their baby. For many people, the ultrasound is the very first time they get a glimpse of their child. If a technician blames a poor image on the baby being "uncooperative," this small comment can set a negative tone. This kind of language can stick with parents, affecting how they see their child even before birth and possibly leading to less involved parenting later on. The study, published in Communications Psychology, highlights how these seemingly small word choices can have a lasting impact.How Early Perceptions Affect Parenting?The research found a clear connection between how mothers felt about their baby during pregnancy and how they viewed their toddler later on. Women who had a more positive view of their unborn child during the study reported fewer emotional or behavioral issues in their children at 18 months old. On the other hand, mothers who had a more negative view of their unborn baby were more likely to report that their toddlers had trouble with things like attention, managing their emotions, and sleeping. This link was shown in an experiment where mothers who were told their baby was "uncooperative" were more likely to have a negative view of their child later.Does A Child’s Behavior Affect Parents’ Bond? Previous research has shown that a baby’s behavior can affect how the parents see them. According to the Frontiers in Public Health connection between how parents perceive their baby's behavior and the parents' own mental health and bonding with the baby. Researchers surveyed 73 mothers of infants between 3.5 weeks and 6 months old. The study found that when mothers reported their infants had frequent stomach or crying issues, they were also more likely to have: Bonding issues with their babyHigher levels of anxietyHigher levels of depressionThe researchers believe that asking parents about their baby's behavior could be a simple way for healthcare professionals to identify mothers who need extra support and babies who may need additional help. This study highlighted a new way for doctors and nurses to help new parents. Instead of only looking at risk factors like a parent's age, they could use simple questionnaires to ask about a parent's perception of their baby's behavior. This approach could make it easier to find families who need support, ensuring they get targeted help more quickly and efficiently. This could lead to better relationships between parents and their babies and improve a child's long-term outcomes. The study also emphasizes the need for more research, particularly with larger, more diverse groups of people, to better understand these connections. Importance of Mindful Communication The findings of this study show just how important it is for healthcare providers to be careful with their words. Simple comments made during a critical moment like an ultrasound can have a lasting impact on parents. The gap between patients and their healthcare professionals widen when communication lacks. This was shown in a 2020 survey published in the JAMA Open Network. The study found that more than 41% of women reported holding back from asking their clinicians questions during prenatal appointments. They reported several reasons for their reluctance like the clinician seemed rushed, they didn’t want to seem difficult, as well as preference to a different plan than what the clinicians wanted. This careful communication could even play a role in a mother's risk for postpartum depression. Since the bond between a parent and child begins to form so early, a negative experience during an ultrasound could potentially affect this crucial relationship, influencing the well-being of both the parent and the child over time.

what doctors say during your first ultrasound could shape how you parent your child

Dementia Diagnosis: How Long Does It Take To Diagnose After Symptoms Appear?

dementia timeline - the average time for diagnosis after symptoms appear may surprise you

Health News

Why Are Only Certain People At Risk Of Developing MS? World's First Study Aims To Crack The Code

why are only certain people at risk of developing ms? world's first study aims to crack the code

Parkinson’s Patients May Soon Walk Better With This New Personalized Brain Therapy

parkinson's patients with walking difficulties show great results with this treatment

Why Do Some Cancer Patients Respond Better To Treatment Than Others? Answer Lies In Body’s Defense Mechanism

why do some cancer patients respond better to treatment than others? the answer lies in our body’s natural defense

Although we have come a long way in medicine, the mysteries of the human body are still being discovered. Every day comes with a new discovery and better understanding of diseases, illnesses and conditions. However, have you heard about an illness that does not have a clear cause, way to diagnose or even cure? 

Although this was a common issue in the past, hearing about a disease like this in today’s day and age is concerning. One such issue many people are battling, many without even knowingly, is <span>chronic fatigue syndrome</span>. However, new research shows that we may be able to diagnose it, through our gut, and with the help of AI. A new study done at Jackson Laboratories found that with the help of AI we may be able to help millions of people who go undiagnosed every year. 

<h2>What Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome? </h2>

The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention explains that Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome affects us in may different ways, this complex illness is severe, long-lasting and something that doesn’t get better with rest. People who have ME also report issues like poor sleep, dizziness, pain, and difficulty thinking. 

A key symptom is post-exertional malaise (PEM), where even small amounts of physical or mental activity can make a person’s symptoms much worse. Because of this, many people with ME/CFS can't do their normal daily activities, and about one in four may be confined to bed for a period of time. 

What makes this illness complex is the diagnosing it. Diagnosing ME/CFS is very difficult because there is no specific test for it. Its symptoms are similar to many other illnesses and can change over time, making it hard for doctors to recognize. This is one reason why many people go undiagnosed. In the U.S., it's estimated that as many as 3.3 million people have ME/CFS, but more than 9 out of 10 of them have not been officially diagnosed. 

There is currently no cure for ME/CFS, but some symptoms can be managed. Patients, their families, and healthcare providers need to work together to create a plan that focuses on the most troubling symptoms. 

The research shows that artificial intelligence (AI) could provide a much-needed breakthrough in diagnosing chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also known as ME. For many years, doctors have struggled to diagnose this condition because there are no clear lab tests for it. This study discovered that CFS disrupts the important connections between a person's gut bacteria, immune system, and metabolism. 

By using AI to analyze these systems, doctors may soon have a reliable way to confirm a diagnosis, giving hope to the millions of people who suffer from this illness. The researchers also hope that by better understanding these connections, they can develop more effective, personalized treatments. 

The researchers used advanced AI to examine the complex relationships within the body. They looked at gut bacteria and the immune system and then matched their findings with the common symptoms of CFS, such as fatigue, chronic pain, and sleep problems. The AI was so effective that it was able to tell the difference between people with CFS and healthy individuals with 90% accuracy. 

The study found that problems with the immune system could show how severe a person's CFS is, while the gut bacteria could help predict issues with sleep, emotions, and digestion. This is a huge step forward because it gives doctors real biological signs—or "biomarkers"—to look for. The study also suggests that the disease's effects get stronger over time, making an early diagnosis even more critical. 

<h2>How Does This Affect CFS Treatment </h2>

The findings from this research open up exciting possibilities for new treatments. Since the <span>gut bacteria and metabolism</span> are always changing, the researchers believe it might be possible to treat the illness by making changes to a person's diet, lifestyle, or through specific medicines. 

The study found clear patterns in the biological systems of people with CFS, which proves that the illness is not random but a real physical problem in the body. Researchers also believe these discoveries might be helpful for understanding and treating long COVID, as both conditions can happen after an infection and have similar symptoms. This new knowledge could eventually lead to more effective ways to manage and treat these complex and often misunderstood illnesses. 

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

AI in health

Can AI diagnose Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Gut brain Axis

Myalgic encephalomyelitis

gut bacteria and metabolism

Although we have come a long way in medicine, the mysteries of the human body are still being discovered. Every day comes with a new discovery and better understanding of diseases, illnesses and conditions. However, have you heard about an illness that does not have a clear cause, way to diagnose or even cure? Although this was a common issue in the past, hearing about a disease like this in today’s day and age is concerning. One such issue many people are battling, many without even knowingly, is chronic fatigue syndrome. However, new research shows that we may be able to diagnose it, through our gut, and with the help of AI. A new study done at Jackson Laboratories found that with the help of AI we may be able to help millions of people who go undiagnosed every year. What Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome? The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention explains that Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome affects us in may different ways, this complex illness is severe, long-lasting and something that doesn’t get better with rest. People who have ME also report issues like poor sleep, dizziness, pain, and difficulty thinking. A key symptom is post-exertional malaise (PEM), where even small amounts of physical or mental activity can make a person’s symptoms much worse. Because of this, many people with ME/CFS can't do their normal daily activities, and about one in four may be confined to bed for a period of time. What makes this illness complex is the diagnosing it. Diagnosing ME/CFS is very difficult because there is no specific test for it. Its symptoms are similar to many other illnesses and can change over time, making it hard for doctors to recognize. This is one reason why many people go undiagnosed. In the U.S., it's estimated that as many as 3.3 million people have ME/CFS, but more than 9 out of 10 of them have not been officially diagnosed. There is currently no cure for ME/CFS, but some symptoms can be managed. Patients, their families, and healthcare providers need to work together to create a plan that focuses on the most troubling symptoms. Can AI Help Diagnose CFS? The research shows that artificial intelligence (AI) could provide a much-needed breakthrough in diagnosing chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also known as ME. For many years, doctors have struggled to diagnose this condition because there are no clear lab tests for it. This study discovered that CFS disrupts the important connections between a person's gut bacteria, immune system, and metabolism. By using AI to analyze these systems, doctors may soon have a reliable way to confirm a diagnosis, giving hope to the millions of people who suffer from this illness. The researchers also hope that by better understanding these connections, they can develop more effective, personalized treatments. Gut-Immune Connection The researchers used advanced AI to examine the complex relationships within the body. They looked at gut bacteria and the immune system and then matched their findings with the common symptoms of CFS, such as fatigue, chronic pain, and sleep problems. The AI was so effective that it was able to tell the difference between people with CFS and healthy individuals with 90% accuracy. The study found that problems with the immune system could show how severe a person's CFS is, while the gut bacteria could help predict issues with sleep, emotions, and digestion. This is a huge step forward because it gives doctors real biological signs—or "biomarkers"—to look for. The study also suggests that the disease's effects get stronger over time, making an early diagnosis even more critical. How Does This Affect CFS Treatment The findings from this research open up exciting possibilities for new treatments. Since the gut bacteria and metabolism are always changing, the researchers believe it might be possible to treat the illness by making changes to a person's diet, lifestyle, or through specific medicines. The study found clear patterns in the biological systems of people with CFS, which proves that the illness is not random but a real physical problem in the body. Researchers also believe these discoveries might be helpful for understanding and treating long COVID, as both conditions can happen after an infection and have similar symptoms. This new knowledge could eventually lead to more effective ways to manage and treat these complex and often misunderstood illnesses. 

can ai diagnose chronic fatigue syndrome in patients? hint, your gut plays a role in this

Tanya Dutt

From One-Child Policy To Baby 'Bonuses':  Why China Is Offering $1,500 To Boost Birth Rates?

From One-Child Policy To Baby 'Bonuses':  Why China Is Offering $1,500 To Fight Declining Birth Rates?

For decades, China’s one-child policy stood as one of the most infamous social experiments in modern demographic engineering. Today, in a dramatic reversal, the country is offering cash subsidies to parents in a bid to revive its dwindling birth rate. Starting this year, Chinese families with children under the age of three can receive up to 10,800 yuan (around $1,500) per child—a landmark nationwide effort aimed at confronting a growing population crisis.

This isn't just a policy shift, it’s a full pivot from state-imposed limits on reproduction to government-backed encouragement to procreate. And the urgency is mounting.

China recorded 9.54 million births in 2024—a slight uptick from the previous year, but still far below the replacement level needed to sustain population growth. The overall population declined for the third consecutive year. Worse, the population is aging rapidly. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, a shrinking labor force and growing elderly population could threaten the country’s economic stability and healthcare infrastructure in the years to come.

The decline is especially concerning for a country that, until recently, was bracing for overpopulation. China’s 1.4 billion people may still top the global charts, but trends suggest a tipping point, fewer births, longer lifespans, and mounting pressure on young workers to support older generations.

<h2>From Coercion to Compensation: Why The Chinese Policy Took a U-Turn?</h2>

The one-child policy, introduced in 1980 to curb population growth, was discarded in 2016 and replaced by a two-child policy, which was then relaxed in 2021 to three children per couple. However, none of these adjustments succeeded. The cultural, social, and economic shift during the one-child era has been hard to undo.

So, what's the new strategy? As of July 2025, the Chinese government has launched its first-ever nationwide subsidy for parents bringing up little ones. Eligible families will be given 3,600 yuan (approximately $500) per kid a year for the first three years of life—totaling 10,800 yuan (~$1,500) per kid.

The program is retroactive, so families whose children were born between 2022 and 2024 also qualify for part-time benefits. Overall, this support will benefit approximately 20 million families.

<h2>Local Governments Were Already Sounding the Alarm</h2>

While the new subsidy is the first national-level policy, several Chinese cities had already taken action. In Hohhot, a city in northern China, authorities began offering 100,000 yuan (over $13,000) per baby for couples with three or more children. In Shenyang, northeast of Beijing, local families with a third child under age three are eligible for monthly payments of 500 yuan (~$70). Other cities have introduced measures such as housing benefits, parental leave extensions, and even employment incentives for larger families.

The central government’s latest move appears to unify these disparate efforts and scale them across the country, signaling a more serious and coordinated response.

<h2>What is The Price of Parenthood in China?</h2>

One of the key drivers behind falling fertility in China is the steep cost of raising children. A study by the YuWa Population Research Institute pegged the average cost of raising one child to age 17 at $75,700—one of the highest in the world relative to income.

That figure includes education, healthcare, housing, extracurriculars, and caregiving expenses, especially in urban centers like Shanghai and Beijing. For many couples, particularly millennials facing job insecurity and long work hours, the math just doesn’t add up.

Even with relaxed policies, the birth rate won’t rise if parenthood continues to feel like an unaffordable luxury.

<h2>Cultural Shifts and the Aftermath of One-Child Thinking</h2>

Aside from finances, decades of aggressive family planning have forged a psychological and cultural heritage. Urban couples, particularly women, typically value education, career, and autonomy over convention. In most families, the "4-2-1" configuration (four grandparents, two parents, one child) makes it disproportionately heavy on the single child to take care of elderly relatives, contributing to the reluctance.

Now, it is also becoming increasingly common for young women to resist efforts by the state to conscript them into a marriage and motherhood role.

Stories of "lying flat," a philosophy of opting out of those high-pressure life scripts, fill social media. So too do doubts about government promises.

This will not be corrected with merely increased cash. It will require rebuilding trust, creating systemic support for working families, and changing national narratives about gender and family roles.

<h2>Can Push for Free Preschool Lead to Long-Term Reforms?</h2>

Beijing seems to realize that subsidies alone won’t solve the problem. In recent weeks, it urged local governments to develop plans for implementing free preschool education. Education is a major cost barrier for many families, and offering state-sponsored early childhood programs could be a significant relief.

Health experts also suggest expanding maternity leave policies, improving childcare infrastructure, and strengthening work-life balance laws. Without these long-term investments, short-term payments risk being seen as symbolic rather than transformational.

Demographic challenges are sweeping across many parts of the world, from Japan and South Korea to Italy and Spain. How China addresses its population decline could set the tone for similar policy responses globally.

Moreover, China's vast labor force has been central to the global supply chain and economic dynamics for decades. A shrinking, aging workforce could have ripple effects from manufacturing slowdowns to shifts in healthcare and retirement trends worldwide.

China’s first national subsidy to boost birth rates marks a major policy shift—but whether it’s enough remains to be seen. The government is racing against time to reverse demographic decline, but fertility decisions are complex, deeply personal, and rooted in more than economics.

Still, this latest initiative opens a door. If followed by thoughtful, inclusive, and sustained reforms—across education, employment, healthcare, and housing—China might yet write a new chapter in how societies adapt to falling birth rates but it won’t be quick, and it won’t be easy.

china birth rate crisis

one child policy end

china fertility rate

china aging population

demographic crisis china

parenting costs in china

1500  dollars subsidy

For decades, China’s one-child policy stood as one of the most infamous social experiments in modern demographic engineering. Today, in a dramatic reversal, the country is offering cash subsidies to parents in a bid to revive its dwindling birth rate. Starting this year, Chinese families with children under the age of three can receive up to 10,800 yuan (around $1,500) per child—a landmark nationwide effort aimed at confronting a growing population crisis.This isn't just a policy shift, it’s a full pivot from state-imposed limits on reproduction to government-backed encouragement to procreate. And the urgency is mounting.China recorded 9.54 million births in 2024—a slight uptick from the previous year, but still far below the replacement level needed to sustain population growth. The overall population declined for the third consecutive year. Worse, the population is aging rapidly. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, a shrinking labor force and growing elderly population could threaten the country’s economic stability and healthcare infrastructure in the years to come.The decline is especially concerning for a country that, until recently, was bracing for overpopulation. China’s 1.4 billion people may still top the global charts, but trends suggest a tipping point, fewer births, longer lifespans, and mounting pressure on young workers to support older generations.From Coercion to Compensation: Why The Chinese Policy Took a U-Turn?The one-child policy, introduced in 1980 to curb population growth, was discarded in 2016 and replaced by a two-child policy, which was then relaxed in 2021 to three children per couple. However, none of these adjustments succeeded. The cultural, social, and economic shift during the one-child era has been hard to undo.So, what's the new strategy? As of July 2025, the Chinese government has launched its first-ever nationwide subsidy for parents bringing up little ones. Eligible families will be given 3,600 yuan (approximately $500) per kid a year for the first three years of life—totaling 10,800 yuan (~$1,500) per kid.The program is retroactive, so families whose children were born between 2022 and 2024 also qualify for part-time benefits. Overall, this support will benefit approximately 20 million families.Local Governments Were Already Sounding the AlarmWhile the new subsidy is the first national-level policy, several Chinese cities had already taken action. In Hohhot, a city in northern China, authorities began offering 100,000 yuan (over $13,000) per baby for couples with three or more children. In Shenyang, northeast of Beijing, local families with a third child under age three are eligible for monthly payments of 500 yuan (~$70). Other cities have introduced measures such as housing benefits, parental leave extensions, and even employment incentives for larger families.The central government’s latest move appears to unify these disparate efforts and scale them across the country, signaling a more serious and coordinated response.What is The Price of Parenthood in China?One of the key drivers behind falling fertility in China is the steep cost of raising children. A study by the YuWa Population Research Institute pegged the average cost of raising one child to age 17 at $75,700—one of the highest in the world relative to income.That figure includes education, healthcare, housing, extracurriculars, and caregiving expenses, especially in urban centers like Shanghai and Beijing. For many couples, particularly millennials facing job insecurity and long work hours, the math just doesn’t add up.Even with relaxed policies, the birth rate won’t rise if parenthood continues to feel like an unaffordable luxury.Cultural Shifts and the Aftermath of One-Child ThinkingAside from finances, decades of aggressive family planning have forged a psychological and cultural heritage. Urban couples, particularly women, typically value education, career, and autonomy over convention. In most families, the "4-2-1" configuration (four grandparents, two parents, one child) makes it disproportionately heavy on the single child to take care of elderly relatives, contributing to the reluctance.Now, it is also becoming increasingly common for young women to resist efforts by the state to conscript them into a marriage and motherhood role.Stories of "lying flat," a philosophy of opting out of those high-pressure life scripts, fill social media. So too do doubts about government promises.This will not be corrected with merely increased cash. It will require rebuilding trust, creating systemic support for working families, and changing national narratives about gender and family roles.Can Push for Free Preschool Lead to Long-Term Reforms?Beijing seems to realize that subsidies alone won’t solve the problem. In recent weeks, it urged local governments to develop plans for implementing free preschool education. Education is a major cost barrier for many families, and offering state-sponsored early childhood programs could be a significant relief.Health experts also suggest expanding maternity leave policies, improving childcare infrastructure, and strengthening work-life balance laws. Without these long-term investments, short-term payments risk being seen as symbolic rather than transformational.Demographic challenges are sweeping across many parts of the world, from Japan and South Korea to Italy and Spain. How China addresses its population decline could set the tone for similar policy responses globally.Moreover, China's vast labor force has been central to the global supply chain and economic dynamics for decades. A shrinking, aging workforce could have ripple effects from manufacturing slowdowns to shifts in healthcare and retirement trends worldwide.China’s first national subsidy to boost birth rates marks a major policy shift—but whether it’s enough remains to be seen. The government is racing against time to reverse demographic decline, but fertility decisions are complex, deeply personal, and rooted in more than economics.Still, this latest initiative opens a door. If followed by thoughtful, inclusive, and sustained reforms—across education, employment, healthcare, and housing—China might yet write a new chapter in how societies adapt to falling birth rates but it won’t be quick, and it won’t be easy.

From One-Child Policy To Baby 'Bonuses':  Why China Is Offering 1,500 To Boost Birth Rates?

from one-child policy to baby 'bonuses':  why china is offering $1,500 to fight declining birth rates?

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