A Study on Integrating Craft into Social Support Systems for Older Adults

In agreement with the World Health Organization’s active aging advocacy and Taiwan’s 2025 transition to a super-aged society, elder care is shifting towards integrated biopsychosocial models. In this study, we explore integrating craft into occupational therapy as a vital non-pharmacological tool for older adults’ well-being. Due to the lack of national strategies, we adhered to COREQ guidelines and conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews (lasting 60–120 min, utilizing a guide anchored in biopsychosocial dimensions) with 20 cross-disciplinary experts, including craft artists, gerontologists, therapists, and designers. Data underwent a mixed-methods analysis: deductive coding using the Biopsychosocial Model of Successful Aging and inductive meaning extraction through the KJ method. The findings of this study reveal that craft effectively combines functional reablement, psychological support, and social interaction. Consequently, we propose a six-stage cyclical strategic model: (1) needs assessment, (2) intervention strategy establishment, (3) cross-disciplinary co-creation, (4) implementation and iterative testing, (5) comprehensive evaluation, and (6) policy advocacy. This framework not only guides the development of products enhancing daily living abilities but also provides practical references for long-term care policies and occupational interventions.