Evaluation of Supply and Demand Balance and Spatial Spillover Effect of Age-Friendly Environment

Abstract

Given the rapid development of population aging, regions face significant challenges in providing diverse public service resources for the elderly. Constructing an age-friendly environment actively addresses population aging and ensures the well-being of the elderly. This study employed panel data from 31 provinces (municipalities) in China spanning the years 2014 to 2020. The research utilized a coupling coordination degree model, Theil index, Moran index method, and spatial econometric model to empirically examine the level of coupling coordination development, regional differences, and spatial spillover effects of age-friendly environments. The findings indicate the following: (1) In terms of coupling and coordination development, the degree of coupling and coordination of age-friendly environments in China shows a consistent upward trend over the years. The eastern region exhibits the highest level of development, surpassing the national average, while the western region has the lowest level, followed by the northeast and central regions. (2) In terms of regional development disparities, inter-regional differences gradually intensify due to variations in development status and resource endowment, playing a significant role in overall variations. Within regions, the highest intra-regional differences occur in the eastern region, while the lowest occur in the western region. (3) Considering the spatial spillover effect, the coupling coordination degree of age-friendly environments demonstrates positive spatial autocorrelation. Various development clusters and variables exert diverse influences on the coupling coordination degree of age-friendly environments within the region, while the spatial spillover effect of surrounding regions manifests distinct development patterns. The findings of this study contribute to enhancing the quality of age-friendly environment construction and promoting coordinated development among different regions.