Evaluation and optimization of spatial equity in elderly care facilities: a case study of Dalian, China

Abstract China’s rapid aging has boosted demand for elderly care facilities (ECFs), yet their spatial equity is understudied. This study evaluates and optimizes ECFs accessibility in Dalian using an improved Gaussian two-step floating catchment area (G2SFCA) method, incorporating real-time road distances (via Gaode API) and elderly-specific travel thresholds. Compared to traditional 2SFCA, it addresses limitations like oversimplified Euclidean distance and homogeneous travel assumptions by accounting for distance decay and actual mobility patterns. The Maximum Accessibility Equality (MAE) model, optimized via Coefficient of Variation (CV) and Mean Absolute Deviation (MAD), minimizes spatial inequity through bed reallocation. The research findings are as follow: pre-optimization, 31% of sub-districts had low accessibility, which dropped to 14% post-optimization, with medium-accessibility areas rising to 76%. MAD-MAE achieved a 48.2% lower standard deviation (3.93 vs. CV-MAE’s 7.59). Strategies include reallocating 150 beds from oversupplied urban cores (Zhoushuizi District) to underserved peripheries (Ganjingzi District). This framework offers a scalable solution for equitable public facility allocation.