Haikou (CNS) -- The rate of citizens over the age of 100 in Hainan has reached 13 for every 100,000 people, nearly doubling the "7 in 100,000" national standard for a "region of longevity," according to the Hainan Provincial Administration for the Sixth Population Census on September 1.
China's sixth national census recorded 1,162 centenarians living in the island province in 2010.
The sixth census was based on results from the fourth and fifth censuses, and individual visits were paid to every centenarian to achieve accurate data.
Compared to 10 years ago, the centenarian population increased by 883, noted Feng Yuehua, inspector of the Hainan Provincial Statistics Bureau and director at the census administration.
The census showed that most centenarians resided in the northern and eastern parts of the island. The secret to their longevity was proper diet and hard work, aided by a healthy natural environment. The local tradition of respecting elders also contributed to their mental health, added Feng.
Chengmai in Hainan is among the 20 cities or towns across the country known as "Longevity Towns of China."
Wenchang City, home to many overseas Chinese, holds a longevity rate of 28.49 in 100,000, the eldest being a female of over 120 years old. It will soon apply to become a "Longevity Town of China."
Hainan has been filing centenarian documents since 2005, according to the Hainan Provincial Committee on Aging.
The provincial government passed the decision to raise elder subsidies from 200 to 300 yuan per month as of January 2011. City and town governments have also increased the budgets for elder care, such as the construction of nursing homes and care centers during the day.
