International Journal of Social Health

Digital Financial Transformation and Microfinance Intermediation Dynamics for MSMES in ASEAN: A Systematic Literature Review and Conceptual Meta-Analysis

Antyo Pracoyo — 2026-07-21

Digital financial transformation has significantly altered the landscape of microfinance intermediation for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region. The rapid growth of fintech, digital payments, peer-to-peer lending, mobile banking, and financial technology ecosystems has expanded financial access, reduced transaction costs, and improved operational efficiency among MSMEs. However, empirical findings remain fragmented regarding the mechanisms by which digital financial services influence MSME sustainability and the dynamics of financial intermediation. This research aims to systematically review and conceptually synthesize the literature on digital financial transformation and microfinance intermediation dynamics for MSMEs in ASEAN using a Systematic Literature Review (SLR), a conceptual meta-analysis, and the PRISMA 2020 framework. Literature was collected from Scopus Q1 and Q2 journals published between 2017 and 2025. The review identifies financial inclusion, technological readiness, digital literacy, institutional quality, and social capital as the dominant mediating and moderating variables influencing MSME performance. The findings indicate that digital financial transformation positively affects MSME sustainability by enhancing financial inclusion and introducing alternative financing mechanisms. Nevertheless, disparities in digital infrastructure, regulatory readiness, and financial capability continue to hinder inclusive digital transformation across ASEAN economies. This study proposes an integrated conceptual framework linking fintech adoption, digital financial inclusion, microfinance intermediation, and MSME sustainability. The study contributes theoretically by integrating fragmented fintech and microfinance literature and, practically, by offering policy implications for inclusive digital financial ecosystems in ASEAN.

Digital Entrepreneurship Training for Older Adults: A Systematic Literature Review on Financial Literacy and Economic Empowerment in the Silver Economy Era

Maya Sova — 2026-07-29

The rapid growth of the aging population and digital transformation has created new challenges and opportunities for older adults to participate in modern economic activities. Although digital technologies have provided opportunities for entrepreneurship, income generation, and financial independence, many older adults have continued to experience digital exclusion due to limited digital skills, technological barriers, and insufficient financial knowledge. This study aimed to examine how digital entrepreneurship training contributed to financial literacy and economic empowerment among older adults within the context of the silver economy era. This research employed a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach based on the PRISMA 2020 framework. Relevant studies published between 2015 and 2025 were identified from the Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, Emerald Insight, and Google Scholar databases. Following the screening and quality assessment processes, 24 empirical studies were selected and analyzed. The findings revealed that digital entrepreneurship training improved digital capabilities, financial literacy, entrepreneurial self-efficacy, income diversification, and economic participation among older adults. Effective training models commonly incorporated blended learning approaches, mentoring systems, practical digital business skills, and age-friendly learning strategies. However, challenges remained regarding digital inequality, limited infrastructure, the sustainability of older adults’ businesses, and insufficient longitudinal evidence. This review concluded that digital entrepreneurship training represented an important strategy for promoting productive aging by strengthening economic resilience, social inclusion, and the active participation of older adults in the digital economy.

Horticultural Therapy and Depression Reduction Among Older Adults in Urban Environments: A Qualitative Synthesis and Meta-Analysis

Siti M. Sholihah — 2026-07-29

Population aging has become a major global public health challenge, with depression emerging as one of the most common mental health problems affecting older adults, particularly those living in urban environments. Limited access to green spaces, social isolation, reduced physical activity, and environmental stressors increase the vulnerability of older populations to depressive symptoms. Horticultural therapy has gained attention as a non-pharmacological, nature-based intervention that may improve psychological well-being through plant interaction, meaningful activities, physical engagement, and social connectedness. This study aims to systematically review and synthesize empirical evidence regarding the effectiveness of horticultural therapy in reducing depression among older adults in urban environments. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Literature searches were performed across the Scopus, PubMed, and ScienceDirect databases, identifying 11 eligible randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies involving 775 participants. A random-effects model was applied to estimate the pooled effect size of horticultural therapy on depressive symptoms. The findings revealed a moderate beneficial effect of horticultural therapy on depression reduction among older adults (SMD = ?0.59; 95% CI: ?0.73 to ?0.45), with consistent positive effects across different intervention formats, including gardening activities, therapeutic gardens, and technology-assisted horticultural programs. These findings indicate that horticultural therapy can support healthy aging by improving emotional well-being, reducing depressive symptoms, and strengthening social participation. However, future research should employ larger randomized controlled trials, standardized intervention protocols, and longer follow-up periods to establish sustainable implementation strategies in urban healthcare and community settings.

Spatial and Temporal Analysis of Rabies Cases in Rabies-Carrier Animals in Banjarbaru City

Adam Aldapari Abdurahman — 2026-07-28

Rabies remains one of the most dangerous zoonotic diseases due to its high fatality rate and ability to spread from rabies-transmitting animals to humans. The persistence of rabies cases is influenced by various factors, including the population density of rabies-infected animals, vaccination coverage, and the effectiveness of disease control programs. This study aimed to analyze the spatial and temporal distribution patterns of rabies cases among rabies-infected animals in Banjarbaru City, South Kalimantan, during 2015–2019. This research employed a descriptive approach with a case series design using secondary surveillance data obtained from the Banjarbaru Veterinary Center and the Food Security, Agriculture, and Fisheries Service. Data on rabies-positive animals, animal bite cases, vaccination records, and incidence rates were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) to visualize the distribution patterns of rabies cases. The results showed that 56 positive rabies cases were identified during the observation period, with a continuous increase in cases, particularly during 2018–2019. Spatial analysis indicated that North Banjarbaru and Landasan Ulin Districts were categorized as high-risk areas, with incidence rates of 27 and 22 cases per 100,000 animal-years, respectively. The findings demonstrate that spatial–temporal mapping can support rabies surveillance and assist authorities in determining priority areas for intervention. In conclusion, strengthening vaccination programs, animal population control, surveillance systems, and integrated One Health-based strategies are necessary to reduce rabies transmission and support sustainable rabies elimination efforts in Banjarbaru City.

Urban–Rural Differences in Caregiver Burnout and Family Financial Readiness in Indonesia: A Systematic Literature Review

Dinni Agustin — 2026-07-28

Population aging has become a major global challenge that increases the demand for sustainable elderly care systems and places significant pressure on caregivers. In Indonesia, the growing elderly population has intensified caregiving responsibilities within families and healthcare institutions, resulting in increased risks of caregiver burnout and financial strain. This study aims to examine caregiver burnout and family financial readiness among caregivers in Indonesia by comparing urban and rural caregiving contexts and identifying factors influencing caregiver well-being. This research employed a systematic literature review (SLR) approach following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Relevant studies were collected from the Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Dimensions databases using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The findings indicate that caregiver burnout is a multidimensional issue influenced by emotional exhaustion, limited healthcare access, inadequate caregiving knowledge, availability of social support, and financial pressures. Urban caregivers tend to experience work–family conflicts, occupational stress, and higher living expenses, whereas rural caregivers face greater structural barriers, including transportation challenges, limited healthcare facilities, and insufficient financial resources. Previous studies also demonstrate that family financial readiness and social support play essential roles in reducing caregiver burden and improving caregiving sustainability. This study concludes that caregiver support policies in Indonesia require an integrated approach involving mental health interventions, financial protection programs, caregiver education, and community-based healthcare services. The findings contribute to the gerontology and public health literature by providing a comprehensive understanding of urban–rural disparities in caregiver burnout and family preparedness for elderly care.