Research on China's End-of-Life Care Policy from the Perspective of Aging Population: A Textual Analysis of 30 Policies from 2017 to 2022

Abstract

As the proportion of elderly population increases and the level of social development continues to rise, the issue of end-of-life care for the elderly has gradually gained societal attention. End-of-life care, as an emerging field, relies crucially on optimizing top-level policy design for its healthy development. This study focuses on 30 national-level end-of-life care policy texts from 2017 to 2022. Utilizing analysis tools such as ROST CM 6 software, NLPIR Chinese word segmentation system, and SPSS, the research employs a three-dimensional framework of keyword frequency analysis, semantic network analysis, and "policy tools-policy time-policy intensity" to comprehensively explore the current state of China's end-of-life care policy. The study reveals existing issues in the policy's practical operability, uneven application of policy tools, neglected funding and information technology support, and weak regulatory aspects. It emphasizes the need to prioritize a people-centered approach, enhance the overall balance in policy tools, promote the standardization of end-of-life care, and improve a diversified service system. These findings broaden the research perspective in the field of end-of-life care, providing insights for optimizing policy design and advancing nationwide end-of-life care efforts.