The Guideline of Integration in Providing Social Welfare for the Elderly

Abstract

The research on the guideline of integration to providing social welfare for the elderly aims to 1) study legal and practical problems in providing various forms of welfare for the elderly according to the law; 2) study the integrated approaches to solving problems in providing social welfare for the elderly. This study is qualitative research that employs purposive sampling with 54 samples.  The questionnaires and focus group discussions were used as research tools. Data collection was carried out at 8 state-owned social welfare development centers and elderly care centers in various regions. It found that 1) the social welfare rights for the elderly, as outlined in the Elderly Person Act, B.E. 2546 (2003), are extensive to protect, promote, and support the overall well-being of the elderly comprehensively. However, certain welfare provisions do not adequately meet the needs of specific groups of elderly individuals in certain areas. It gives equal rights. But it's not fair. 2) Welfare operations in the form of elderly care facilities, managed by the Center for Social Welfare Development, face challenges related to budget allocation. The allocated budget does not align with the increasing number of elderly individuals annually. 3) The integrated approach to problem-solving involves promoting a good quality of life for the elderly, encouraging family and community involvement in elderly care, and ensuring clarity in the responsibilities of state agencies at the central, regional, and local levels regarding elderly welfare. It advocates for all sectors to prioritize efforts to create care networks, both formal and informal.