Guidelines for the Development of Residential Facilities for Elderly Care or Dependent Persons with Multiple Branches: Case Studies of Ban Salisa Lampang, Pa Daed Chiang Mai and Bang Na

Abstract

Thailand is undergoing a demographic transition towards an aging society, with projections indicating that by 2030, the elderly population will comprise 19% of the total population. This shift is driven by declining fertility rates and increased life expectancy, leading to a growing need for elderly care services and presenting new business opportunities. Consequently, it is imperative to develop appropriate policies and plans to effectively manage and accommodate these societal and demographic changes. This paper aims to examine the factors influencing the needs of the elderly, including both internal and external physical characteristics, operational challenges, and to propose strategies for the development of multi-branch elderly care centers. The study employs a case study approach, involving field surveys at three branches, interviews with 30 stakeholders including operators, branch managers, and elderly care experts, and employs a three-step research methodology: data collection, tool development, and analysis.

The findings reveal that health, income levels, and the location of elderly care centers are critical factors in their development. The study of the Baan Lalisaa projects in Lampang, Pai Daet Chiang Mai, and Bang Na demonstrates that having multiple branches not only enhances the credibility of the centers but also offers superior services compared to typical elderly care facilities, such as the facilitation of elderly and staff transfers within the organization. All three branches are strategically located near communities and within 3 kilometers of hospitals, ensuring convenience in transferring the elderly and situated away from noise and air pollution. The architectural design focuses on communal living spaces which are spacious, meeting a minimum standard of 9 square meters per bed, providing a comfortable and observable environment for the elderly and their caregivers.