Geographic Information Systems for Elderly Care Resource Allocation: A Scoping Review

This research project investigates the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to address the critical challenge of equitably allocating resources for aging populations. As the global demographic shifts towards an older society, a significant spatial mismatch often exists between where elderly populations live and where care resources (e.g., nursing homes, home-care services, specialized clinics) are located. This can lead to systemic inequities in access, inefficient use of public funds, and ultimately, poorer health and social outcomes. The primary purpose of this project is to systematically map, synthesize, and evaluate the current state of GIS science in the domain of elderly care resource planning. We aim to create a comprehensive evidence base that clarifies what has been done, how it has been done, and where crucial gaps in research and practice remain. We are conducting a systematic scoping review following established guidelines (Joanna Briggs Institute). This involves searching multiple academic databases to identify relevant literature. We will chart and synthesize the evidence to create a typology of GIS applications in this field and analyze prevalent methodological approaches and data sources.Besides, we will identify geographic and thematic research gaps (e.g., applications in low-income countries, for dementia care, or in rural settings). Expected outcomes and deliverables include: 1.A publishable scoping review manuscript for an interdisciplinary journal. 2.A publicly accessible interactive evidence map visualizing research trends. 3.A replicable, open-source GIS workflow and model for assessing care resource accessibility. By integrating a rigorous review of existing knowledge with a practical analytical demonstration, this project seeks to advance the scientific understanding and practical application of spatial tools. The ultimate goal is to provide evidence and frameworks that can support more equitable, efficient, and data-driven decision-making in elderly care systems globally.