Innovative development model for high quality elderly care: A study of "chain + virtual elderly care" services in Hengyang City

Abstract

Hengyang City faces challenges from rapid aging, including weakened family care and a shortage of resources. The "three social linkage" mechanism integrates community of practice, social organizations, and professional support to improve health services for the aged. However, issues like low smart device use and talent shortages persist. This study aims to optimize resource allocation and service efficiency through a "chain + virtual elderly care" model. This article explores the "three social linkage" mechanism and the integration of chain services with virtual elderly care models in Hengyang City. It examines three core elements: Resource integration, service collaboration, and professional support. The community coordinates resources and maintains databases of elderly care needs, while social organizations provide services and social workers design care plans. Data was gathered through case studies, interviews, and observations, focusing on smart technology integration and service outcomes. The study also evaluates cross-departmental data sharing, social worker training, and funding mechanisms, using performance indicators like service delivery time, user satisfaction, and resource use. The analysis of elderly care services in Hengyang City reveals key issues and improvements within the "three social linkage" mechanism. The three social linkage mechanism has facilitated better resource integration and service collaboration. Communities have created resource lists and service demand databases, improving coordination. Social organizations provide specialized services, and social workers conduct home visits to create personalized care plans. The virtual elderly care platform has enhanced service efficiency, with smart devices like bracelets enabling real-time health monitoring. The "chain + virtual elderly care" model in Hengyang has effectively addressed issues of scattered and outdated resources by integrating services through community hubs, standardized stations, and dynamic resource databases. Smart elderly care platforms, especially devices like wristbands, have improved service efficiency and emergency response.

Keywords: Health services for the aged; Resource allocation; Community of practice; Observation; Emergency

Core Tip: This study aims to explore the construction path of the "chain + virtual elderly care" service model, by establishing a community resource integration mechanism and a smart service platform, to achieve precise identification of service needs and dynamic allocation of resources. The research focuses on addressing three core issues: How to break down departmental barriers and form a service synergy through the "three social linkage" mechanism, how to use information technology to improve service response efficiency, and how to build a sustainable elderly care service supply system. The research results can provide replicable experience samples for cities of the same type, as well as theoretical support for improving the grassroots social governance system, which has practical significance for promoting equalization of basic elderly care services.