Co-production of smart eldercare between technology and service-oriented companies in China

Abstract

Smart eldercare is promoted as a potential solution to the urgent healthcare crisis stemming from an ageing population and a shortage of staff. The exact meaning of smart eldercare varies among stakeholders, including government bodies, eldercare firms, and the elderly. This study investigates the differing strategies of technology-focused and service-focused companies within smart care. Emphasising the political elements of intelligent eldercare, it highlights the importance of co-production. Using thematic analysis, the study demonstrates that technology-focused firms at a 2024 smart eldercare summit in Shanghai prioritise innovation and market prospects of emerging technologies, based on ethnographic research. In contrast, service-oriented firms focus on the pragmatic utilisation of technology in their eldercare services. This study contributes to the understanding of smart eldercare technology adoption and co-production by revealing the complexities and discussions associated with real-world implementation.