Policy Considerations for Integrating Foreign Workers into Elderly Care Services: A Delphi Study

This study aims to identify key considerations for integrating foreign workers into elderly care services in South Korea. A three-round Delphi survey was conducted with 16 experts in elderly care to develop a consensus on essential policy considerations. Findings highlight a range of critical issues, including qualifications and residency requirements, employment standards, service operation and management, and workforce training. The study underscores the importance of ensuring that foreign care workers are equipped with qualifications comparable to domestic caregivers, in order to maintain service quality and sustainability. It further calls for a policy approach grounded in elderly-centered care principles and the creation of a safe and supportive environment for both elderly care recipients and foreign care providers.