4.0 Column: Flexible Care and Secure Aging in Place — Community-Based Multiservice Centers
Since 2018, the Hospital has expanded toward a diversified service model and signed a service contract with the Department of Health, Kaohsiung City Government to operate a community-based multiservice center. The center spans approximately 677 square meters and is capable of serving up to 60 elderly individuals. The community-based multiservice is a comprehensive and integrated model of community care. Centered around a day care facility (commonly referred to as a “day care center”), it expands to include home-based support and short-term residential stays. In short, it is a “three-in-one” service model.
The community-based multiservice integrates a range of services, including day care, home-based support, and short-term residential stays, which can be flexibly combined to meet the varying needs of families. This approach helps relieve the burden on family caregivers during the day, at night, and on weekends or holidays, aiming to provide more comprehensive and reliable support for both elderly individuals and their families. Families can choose services based on their specific needs, enabling personalized care plans for elderly individuals. Guided by the principles of holistic care, aging in place, and seamless service delivery, the community-based multiservice promotes the development of a community-based care system that strengthens elderly residents’ ability to live independently in their communities and ensures the provision of continuous and comprehensive care services.
In addition, the Hospital is the only military hospital in Kaohsiung City that operates a community-based multiservice center. By integrating professional resources across medical care, nursing, and social work, the Hospital provides comprehensive and diverse services to community residents and the elderly family members of military personnel, both within and outside the hospital. These services not only address the care needs of elderly individuals and vulnerable groups but also reflect our commitment to social responsibility. Through this initiative, we strive to enhance the quality of life for local residents, strengthen community ties, and create a warm, safe, and elder-friendly environment where people can age with dignity and peace of mind.
