Purpose: This study aims to not only measure the elderly welfare supply index but investigate spatial patterns and determinants of local elderly welfare services in South Korea. Research design, data, and methodology: The index for local elderly welfare services is measured by employing standardized scores for critical variables related to elderly welfare. The present study utilized the GIS technique and Moran’s I index to examine spatial patterns of elderly welfare services. The determinants of local elderly welfare service are analyzed by a series of regression models using R. Results: Spatial imbalance and asymmetric distribution were serious in the supply of elderly welfare service. It was also confirmed that the factors affecting the level of welfare services for the elderly vary depending on the type of service. In particular, the higher the proportion of the elderly population and the social welfare budget, the lower the level of welfare services for the elderly. Conclusions: Given the circumstance of spatial mismatch between supply and demand for elderly welfare services, it is necessary to consider and provide policy tactics about how the economic benefits and welfare budgets generated in the region can contribute to strengthening the welfare service system for the elderly.
1. Introduction
2. Theoretical Background and Prior Literature
3. Methodology
4. Findings
5. Conclusions