The Impact of Community Mutual Aid Models on Physical and Mental Health of Urban Elderly Living Alone: A Global Comparative Study

Abstract

This study explored Community Mutual Aid Models (CMAMs)’ impact on health of urban elderly living alone (≥65 years) in 12 cities across 8 countries. With 2021–2024 longitudinal data from 8,000 participants and mixed methods, results showed: 1) CMAM participation reduced physical frailty risk by 38% (OR=0.62, p<0.001) and depression by 45% (PHQ-9 reduction: 5.2±1.8, p<0.001); 2) Hybrid models („peer support + professional guidance“) outperformed pure peer models (β=0.28/0.32, p<0.001); 3) Key factors: participation frequency (≥3 times/week doubled benefits), social connection quality, and community funding (≥$500/year per capita boosted effectiveness by 35%).Policies: Promote hybrid CMAMs, fund low-resource communities, and train professional facilitators.

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