In the context of an ageing population, a prevalence of chronic diseases, health issues causing further impediments, and the shrinking of family structures, the development of long-term care has become an important social issue. This report takes a systematic look at policy evolution and the development of long-term care in China, to clarify the attributes and fundamental role long-term care plays in the development of elderly care services, as well as the importance of implementing a comprehensive plan with relevant and coherent infrastructure, consolidating the legal environment, policy and associated recommendations, so as to promote the healthy and rapid development of long-term care.