Recent news of an 84-year-old man ending the life of his chronically ill wife has shocked the public, and spawned a public debate over long-term care for the elderly.

Welfare groups believe that Taiwanese citizens who need constant care are often overlooked, and end up under much pressure.

These groups are calling for the government to put more effort into publicizing elderly care to give more support to people in need.

Wanting to put an end to his wife's suffering, 84-year-old Mr. Wang ended the life of Mrs. Wang, who was stricken with Parkinson's disease.

Before that, a woman with cancer killed her own grandson.

One after another, these news events shocked the Taiwan public.

It isn't hard to imagine the pressure on the family members who have to take care of these people in need.

According to statistics, family care providers spend approximately 14 hours each day caring for another being, making it hard for them to catch a break.

Although the government provides support for these families, the support is insufficient given the current demand of these situations.

Family care providers often are at a loss for whom to seek for help or support and often cannot find substitutes.

The current support program offered by the government is so inflexible, it has been used for only less than 10 percent.

Welfare groups are urging the government to pay more attention to citizens needing a long-term care system.

Starting with a one day a week plan, the government should publicize citizen care and provide a more comprehensive care service for families.