How Will Our Retirement Life Be? An Analysis of Elderly Care through the Lens of the Forest Therapy Industry

With the development of the social economy and the arrival of the aging era, the issue of elderly care has increasingly gained social attention. This matter not only concerns the personal interests of individuals but also represents a significant focal point in the construction of social welfare systems, influencing the development direction of multiple industries. As the elderly population continues to grow, there is a pressing need for innovative and sustainable care solutions. Among the diverse elderly care models, the forest therapy industry emerges as a new direction, providing seniors with a comfortable natural environment that promotes physical and mental health. This approach not only enhances the well-being of older adults but also serves as an important avenue for rational and sustainable development through the utilization of forest ecological products. This paper explores the connection between elderly care models and the forest therapy industry, offering insights into the current state and future development of the Chinese elderly care sector. By examining the benefits of integrating forest therapy into existing care frameworks, this study aims to provide practical recommendations. It is hoped that these insights will serve as a reference for stakeholders in the Chinese elderly care industry, promoting the positive role of forest therapy in optimizing and enhancing elderly care models for a healthier, happier aging population.