The Development of Public Transportation Models for Older Adults in Accessing Healthcare Services in Urban Communities of Pattani Province

Abstract

The National Statistical Office projects that by 2030, the proportion of older adults in Thailand will rise to 26.9 percent of the total population (Department of Mental Health, 2023). While systems such as public health and health insurance have been prepared in advance, an equally crucial factor in improving quality of life is ensuring mobility that is convenient, safe, and equitable, meeting the daily activity needs of all age groups. Many older adults must rely on public transportation for their daily routines, yet they often face difficulties because the current system does not adequately address their needs, creating barriers to accessing hospitals and other health services. Furthermore, there is still no specific policy emphasizing public transportation services tailored for the elderly. Therefore, studying the travel patterns of older adults in Thailand has become an urgent priority.