A survey shows that many senior citizens are widows and widowers. Among Zhejian seniors over age 70, nearly one-third have lost their spouses, while 70 percent of spouses have died for those over age 80.

Unexpectedly, only a mere two percent of single older people get re-married.

The Zhejiang Daily says that children's opposition is the major obstacle against their parents' second marriage.

Some childern worry that a new spouse will inherit their family assets. And some hold the traditional belief that a second marriage is a shameful thing.

The paper carried experts' view that when senior citizens get remarried, it demonstrates social progress and should be supported.

The experts point out that a second marriage is good for seniors' health as they can exchange ideas and take care of each other.

Remarriage can also partly relieve the burden on their children and the social organizations for the aged.

(Zhejiang China 01/29/2002)