Social Innovation and Social Care: Local Solutions to Global Challenges

Abstract

This paper presents a case study of the Local Care Ecosystems developed by the provincial government of Gipuzkoa (Basque Country, Spain) to strengthen coordination between social services, health services, and community-based initiatives at the municipal level. The initiative seeks to personalize care, enhance service integration, and support community-based care with the overarching goal of improving the quality of life for older adults living at home. These ecosystems incorporate social, institutional, and technological innovations aimed at supporting individuals who are frail or vulnerable throughout the care cycle. At present, 18 Local Care Ecosystems are active, providing services to 1202 people over the age of 65 and 167 families. The model addresses a growing global challenge linked to population aging, which has led to increasing demand for care and support services that are often fragmented, under-resourced, and constrained by outdated regulatory frameworks. These structural issues can compromise both the quality and efficiency of care for dependent individuals. Based on the findings, the paper offers policy recommendations to support the transfer and adaptation of this model, with the aim of improving the well-being of older adults who wish to remain in their own homes.