KIHASA has published four research reports, including: “Exploring Improvement Measures for the Adult Guardianship System: Focusing on Decision-Making Support for Older Adults with Dementia and Cognitive Decline” and “Analyzing the Validity of Subsidy Rates and Improving the Financial Structure of Central Government Subsidy Program in Social Welfare.”

1. Exploring Improvement Measures for the Adult Guardianship System: Focusing on Decision-Making Support for Older Adults with Dementia and Cognitive Decline by Lee Sun Hee, et al.

This study aims to analyze the current status of the public guardianship program for individuals with dementia from the perspective of decision-making support and propose measures for improvement. Specifically, the study seeks to enhance the protection of individuals with dementia and strengthen their autonomy. To achieve this, it identifies key issues in the current guardianship system and suggests improvements, including redefining the concept of decision-making support for individuals with dementia, reinforcing systematic approaches, enhancing the expertise of guardians and improving the educational system, and establishing guidelines for the roles and authority of guardians.

2. Analyzing the Validity of Subsidy Rates and Improving the Financial Structure of Central Government Subsidy Program in Social Welfare by Chung Hongwon, et al.

This research aims to systematically analyze and evaluate the financial structure of ‘Central Government Subsidy Program in Social Welfare’. Based on analysis results, we seek to explore and propose alternatives for reforming the financial structure of central government subsidy program.

3. Ensuring Safe Medication Use in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Policy Study by Park Eunja, et al.

Medication is a critical component of successful and healthy aging. This study identified the problems of medicine use among the elderly and examined relevant domestic and international intervention methods to propose policy measures to support the safe use of medicines among the elderly. As a policy case, the visiting pharmacy program of the community-integrated care project and the pilot project for multi-drug management in collaboration with doctors and pharmacists were analyzed, and the relevant policies of Japan and Europe, which experienced an ultra-aged society before Korea, were examined. Older adults are particularly vulnerable to medication-related issues, including duplication of medications due to physical and mental decline and multiple chronic conditions. Policies and projects that reduce medication-related problems and promote safe and effective medication use among the elderly should be expanded in an aged society.

4. A Study of Assessment of Social Cohesion Status with Policy Implications (XI): Public Perception of Migrants' Social Integration by Kwak YoonKyung, et al.

The study aims to understand public perceptions of migrants in Korea, attitudes toward immigration policies, and views on migrants’ social rights and the welfare system. In order to do so, a face-to-face survey using structured questionnaires was conducted between June and August 2024, targeting a sample of 3,000 Korean adults aged 19 to 75 across the nation. The analysis examined public perceptions of diversity and migrant acceptance across dimensions such as cultural openness, stereotypes, and national identity. Additionally, attitudes toward immigration policies and social integration were examined. A subsequent section of the report focuses on public views regarding migrants’ social rights and the welfare system. The research findings provide valuable insights for enhancing social cohesion. Firstly, public perceptions of migrants should be taken into account when designing and implementing relevant social policies. Secondly, the quality of contact between locals and migrants should be prioritized over the frequency of contact. Thirdly, achieving social consensus on social integration policies and establishing mid-to-long-term policy directions is essential. In this process, the voices of both locals and migrants should be actively included. Fourthly, introducing a social integration fund should be considered. Lastly, an anti-discrimination law should be enacted, along with the establishment of an anti-discrimination committee within relevant ministries or public institutions, with a special rapporteur appointed to oversee these efforts.