A study on the Feasibility of a University-Based Multi-Disciplinary Collaborative Service Program Model through Beauty Welfare Services for the Elderly

As South Korea approaches a super-aged society, this study explored the feasibility of university-based multidisciplinary collaborative volunteer programs for activating beauty welfare among the elderly by identifying practitioners’ perceptions and implementation barriers. Using a mixed-methods approach with 101 practitioners, the results showed a discrepancy between program operation and perceived effectiveness; while cognitive and physical activities predominated, effectiveness was rated higher for physical activities. Notably, the Hair & Makeup Design department(M=2.15) ranked third in necessity, following Companion Animal Industry(M=2.75) and Food Care & Yakseon(M=2.64), highlighting beauty welfare services alongside emotional and nutritional management as core unmet needs. Perceptions varied by facility type and experience, with home care centers and less-experienced staff reporting lower feasibility. Key barriers included schedule coordination(40.0%) and limited space(30.0%), while qualitative themes emphasized preliminary needs assessments and sequential approaches. These findings suggest that multidisciplinary models centered on beauty welfare can effectively address elderly care gaps. Successful implementation requires differentiated strategies by facility type, standard operating manuals, and formal university-facility partnerships. Future longitudinal research is needed to measure direct outcomes, providing a foundation for sustainable community-based integrated care and standardized beauty welfare protocols.