Europe has developed diverse models of community-based elderly care, ranging from integrated long-term care services in Nordic welfare states to family-supportive and volunteer-based schemes in Southern and Eastern Europe. Many of these approaches emphasize aging in place, social participation, and coordination between health and social services.

China, on the other hand, is facing unprecedented demographic pressures with rapid population aging, a shrinking family support system due to low fertility, and uneven distribution of elderly care resources between urban and rural areas. Policymakers are increasingly exploring community-based solutions as an alternative to over-reliance on institutional care.

My question is: To what extent can European experiences be adapted to the Chinese context, given the cultural, institutional, and demographic differences? For instance:

Which aspects of European models (e.g., home-based services, volunteer networks, integration of health and social care) are most adaptable?

What barriers—such as governance structures, financing mechanisms, or family norms—might limit transferability?

Are there examples of successful cross-cultural adaptation of elderly care practices that could serve as lessons?

I would very much appreciate insights from colleagues working on aging, welfare policies, and comparative social policy across Europe and Asia.