Innovation and Practical Exploration of Supply Models for Community-Based Home Care Services in an Aging Society

Abstract

The rapid demographic shift towards an aging global population presents one of the most significant socioeconomic challenges of the 21st century. As institutional care models face sustainability crises and older adults increasingly prefer to "age in place," community-based home care (CBHC) services have emerged as a critical component of the elderly care continuum. However, traditional supply models for these services are often fragmented, under-resourced, and ill-equipped to meet the diverse and complex needs of a growing senior demographic. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the innovation and practical exploration of new supply models for CBHC services. It examines the limitations of conventional state-led and informal care models, setting the stage for an exploration of more dynamic, efficient, and person-centered alternatives. We investigate three prominent innovative models: the "Government-Led, Market-Operated" (GLMO) public-private partnership; the mission-driven Social Enterprise and Non-Profit (NPO) model; and the emerging "Digital Platform + Gig Economy" model. Through a comparative analysis, supported by case study data and practical implementation examples, this paper assesses the respective strengths, weaknesses, and contexts for each model. The findings indicate that no single model is universally superior; rather, effective CBHC provision often relies on hybrid approaches that integrate technology, foster cross-sectoral collaboration, and are flexibly adapted to local regulatory and cultural environments. This research concludes with policy recommendations aimed at creating a sustainable, high-quality, and accessible ecosystem for community-based home care in an increasingly aging world.