List of issues > Series «Earth Sciences». 2026. Vol 57
The Territorial System of Social Services for the Elderly of
the Irkutsk Region
Author(s)
Yu. M. Zelenyuk, D. M. Danilenko
Irkutsk State University, Irkutsk, Russian Federation
Abstract
This paper examines the characteristics of the current social services system in the Irkutsk
region. Using a comprehensive approach combining statistical analysis, geographic information
mapping, comparative geographic research, and typology, it attempts to conceptualize the sector as a
territorial socioeconomic system. Taking into account the region's demographic characteristics, emphasis was placed on social services for the elderly. The results of the study revealed that the spatial
organization of the system is based on a hierarchically structured set of control centers and a network
of institutions of varying organizational and ownership structures. The existing network of social
infrastructure facilities does not form a unified social space within the region, and spatial localization
varies depending on the facility's ownership structure. The system's weaknesses include inpatient and
semi-inpatient care facilities, which are virtually absent in the eastern part of the region–an area with
the highest level of demographic aging–as well as preventative facilities. The expansion of the network of institutions necessary for the balanced development of the social services system must be
based on inclusion in the spatial structure of urban and rural settlements outside the Irkutsk agglomeration, including key settlements.
About the Authors
Zelenyuk Yuliya Mikhailovna
Candidate of Sciences (Geography),
Associate Professor of the Department
of Geography, Cartography and Geo-Systems
Technology
Irkutsk State University
1, K. Marx st., Irkutsk, 664003,
Russian Federation
e-mail: zelenyuk.jm@yandex.ru
Danilenko Diana Maximovna
Student, Faculty of Geography
Irkutsk State University
1, K. Marx st., Irkutsk, 664003,
Russian Federation
E-mail: dianadanilenko87@gmail.com
For citation
Zelenyuk Yu.M., Danilenko D.M. The Territorial System of Social Services for the Elderly of the Irkutsk Region.
The Bulletin of Irkutsk State University. Series Earth Sciences, 2026, vol. 57, pp. 64-77. https://doi.org/10.26516/2073-3402.2026.57.64 (in Russian)
Keywords
social services, territorial socio-economic system, elderly, Irkutsk region.
UDC
364-7(571.53)
DOI
https://doi.org/10.26516/2073-3402.2026.57.64
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