Purpose: As society rapidly ages, the number of older single-person households continues to grow. These individuals often face barriers to healthcare access due to limited social and family support, which increases their risk of experiencing unmet medical needs. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of unmet medical care among single-person elderly households and to examine the influence of demographic, health-related, and community environmental factors, thereby providing evidence to inform policies aimed at improving healthcare accessibility. Methods: This study analyzed data from the 2023 Korean Elderly Survey, including 3,423 individuals aged 65 years or older from older single-person households. Unmet medical care was defined as a self-perceived need for treatment that was not fulfilled. A complex sample logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify associated factors. Results: Significant risk factors for unmet medical care included low educational attainment, unemployment, low income, weak social networks, and poor relationships with children. In addition, frailty, negative self-rated health, multiple chronic conditions, depression, cognitive decline, inadequate nutrition, and insufficient physical activity were associated with higher risks. Environmental factors such as difficulty going out and long distances to healthcare facilities further increased the likelihood of unmet medical needs. Conclusion: Older single-person households face multiple vulnerabilities — including economic hardship, poor health, limited social support, and environmental barriers — that contribute to unmet medical needs. Addressing this issue requires comprehensive policy interventions that enhance community-based care, improve healthcare accessibility, and strengthen social connections.
Purpose: Newly hired visiting nurses often face difficulties adapting to autonomous home-based care environments despite their vital role in serving vulnerable populations. Practical, field-based training is essential to support early adaptation. Objective: This study aimed to develop and implement a preceptorship-based training program using joint home visits, and to evaluate its effectiveness and satisfaction among participants. Methods: A three-day structured program was developed using the ADDIE model, including briefing, joint home visits with preceptors, and debriefing. A total of 83 visiting nurses (38 new, 45 senior) participated from five districts in Seoul. Satisfaction and training adequacy were assessed through a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and t-tests were used for analysis. Results: Both groups reported high satisfaction with the training program. New nurses experienced increased confidence and reduced anxiety. Senior nurses reported improved role clarity and mentoring awareness. Statistically significant differences were found between the groups regarding training guideline adequacy and preceptor staffing (p<.05). Conclusion: The joint home visit preceptorship program was positively perceived by participants in supporting new nurses' job adaptation and enhancing self-efficacy. This model can inform standardized onboarding education for public health nurses and contribute to long-term workforce retention.