Liang Yu-Tzu Proposes Additional NT$10,000 Dental Subsidy for Seniors Aged 65 and Above – Full Denture Subsidy in Pingtung City to Reach Up to NT$40,000

With Taiwan entering a super-aged society, senior oral health and quality of life are gaining increasing attention. Pingtung City mayoral candidate Liang Yu-Tzu announced today (25) a long-term healthcare policy proposal, stating that if elected, she will provide an additional NT$10,000 subsidy for dentures to seniors aged 65 and above who are registered residents of Pingtung City. Combined with the current subsidy from Pingtung County Government, the maximum subsidy for full dentures could reach NT$40,000, significantly reducing the financial burden for seniors seeking dental prosthetics.

Liang emphasized that oral health is crucial to seniors’ overall quality of life. Missing teeth not only impair chewing ability but may also lead to inadequate nutrition, affecting digestion, physical function, and daily activities. Additionally, seniors may experience reduced social confidence and willingness to interact due to appearance or speech concerns.

She pointed out that for many seniors, the cost of dentures—often amounting to tens of thousands of dollars—represents a major barrier to improving oral health. Currently, Pingtung County offers a maximum subsidy of NT$30,000 for upper and lower jaw removable dentures for seniors aged 65 and above. Liang’s proposal would add an additional NT$10,000 from the Pingtung City Office, raising the total subsidy to NT$40,000 and further reducing out-of-pocket expenses.

Liang stressed that in the face of an aging society, the city office must not merely provide passive services but actively bridge gaps in long-term care and health support. This policy will primarily target seniors aged 65 and above who are registered residents of Pingtung City and have a need for dentures. The city will allocate budget funds to ensure local government becomes a key pillar in senior healthcare.

Promoting 'local care and holistic health' to build a more senior-friendly living environment

In addition to financial subsidies, Liang plans to collaborate with the Pingtung County Dental Association and local contracted clinics to streamline the application process. She also aims to strengthen community-based oral health education, oral screenings, and public awareness campaigns, making it easier for eligible seniors to access medical resources.

Liang stated that caring for seniors is not just about extending life expectancy, but ensuring they live healthily and with dignity. She hopes the enhanced denture subsidy will allow seniors to regain the joy of chewing delicious food and the confidence to speak freely, without being held back by financial constraints. By implementing 'local care and holistic health,' she aims to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for the elderly.