Community long-term care services in Taiwan: a qualitative study based on provider’s perspectives

Abstract

Purpose This qualitative study aims to explore the experiences of Taiwan’s community-based long-term care service stations. Design/methodology/approach Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight managers selected from stations located in the counties with the highest proportion of elderly people. Findings The results are as follows: the main services offered by the stations include health promotion activities, congregate meal programs, respite care and making house calls; government subsidies constitute a major proportion of the service stations’ funds, followed by user payments and external donations; the adversities encountered include frequent policy revisions, the dwellers’ reluctance to participate in the activities, manpower shortages and subpar service quality; and the effects of the stations on the community include achieving aging in place, providing more options for life after retirement, mitigating caregivers’ burden, expanding the elderly’s social networks and strengthening their health literacy. Originality/value The results of this research can understand the benefits and difficulties of Tier C service centers in Taiwan. Also, the practical experiences provide some suggestions for policies and training. Future studies can focus on establishing systematized training programs and standardizing the service personnel’s competence.