Author(s)

Xiong Hanchuan

Corresponding Author

Xiong Hanchuan

Abstract

Originating in Western countries, the "Time Bank" typically refers to a mutual elderly care model where younger elderly individuals assist older elderly individuals. Relevant institutions record the volunteer service time, and when the younger elderly individuals require assistance in the future, they receive help from other younger volunteers. A decade ago, this model was believed to enable deferred payment for labor outcomes, reduce the societal burden of elderly care, and adapt to the reality of an aging population in our country. However, since the end of the 20th century, after pilot trials in major cities in our country and over a decade of development, this model has not been widely promoted nationwide. In fact, the "Time Bank" in some regions has already ceased to exist. Based on research conducted at the Chaoyang District Social Volunteer Public Welfare Savings Center, the difficulty in promoting this model is due to the lack of strong guarantees for "withdrawals" of time, akin to a "bounced check." The government should reposition the nature and role of the "Time Bank," viewing it as an effective means to incentivize volunteer services and promote mutual elderly care.

Keywords

Time Bank; Elderly Assistance; Volunteer Services; Incentive Mechanism