In the bustling academic realm of Thammasat University, a resonant declaration echoed through the hallowed halls as scholars passionately called for a seismic shift in how Thailand manages its swiftly greying population. The clarion call—a plea for the government to bolster training regimes for community-based managers—emerged during a spirited panel discussion at the unveiling of the “TU Care & Ageing Society Programme”. This ambitious endeavor seeks to firmly plant Thammasat University at the forefront of tackling the intricate issues posed by Thailand’s ageing demographic.
Amidst this lively discourse, Assistant Professor Nattapat Sarobol, an esteemed expert in elderly welfare from the University’s Faculty of Social Administration, painted a sobering picture of Thailand’s rapidly and, dare we say, insufficiently maturing society. With a palpable sense of urgency, she illuminated the plight of many Thai elders, who endure overwhelming isolation and encounter care that falls distressingly short, reminiscent of Japan’s haunting kodokushi phenomenon, where individuals tragically pass away in solitude. Adding to the tapestry of concern, she highlighted the harrowing reality of “the long goodbye,” where dementia insidiously creates an emotional chasm between the afflicted and those who hold them dear, long before the eventual farewell.
Professor Nattapat’s fervent appeal underscored the imperative need for adept professionals to deftly handle these challenges at the community’s heart. The bedrock of robust elderly care, she asserted, rests upon the pillars of primary and community care. Additionally, she championed the champions—the unsung family caregivers—advocating for legislative reforms to grant them leave allowances, enabling them to optimally care for their elderly kin.
Her faculty is already a vanguard in this monumental task, joining forces with local administrative bodies across 39 territories as part of the visionary “Smart and Strong” project. A shining exemplar is the BYT Smart Health City initiative flourishing in Bung Yitho municipality, Pathum Thani. This burgeoning model serves as a beacon, paving new pathways in elderly care.
Simultaneously, Associate Professor Plaiwan Suttanon, the dynamic Dean of the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences at Thammasat University, unequivocally emphasized the formidable health challenges confronting the elderly—staunch adversaries like non-communicable diseases, dementia’s tenacious grasp, conditions tied to obesity, and perilous falls—all of which ruthlessly erode life’s quality and rob autonomy.
Yet, with steely resolve, she affirmed her faculty’s enviable position, poised to fortify the nation’s healthcare framework. The Elder Care School, nestled within the Institute for Continuing Education and Human Resources, stands ready to empower local communities with in-depth training in elderly care.
Rounding off this illustrious panel, Assoc. Prof. ML Pinitbhand Paribatra, the University’s Vice Rector for Research and Innovations, eloquently expounded upon Thammasat’s interdisciplinary odyssey. He heralded the institution’s collaboration with over a hundred research centers as a vibrant tapestry committed to transmuting scholarly pursuits into palpable societal benefits.
“Our vocation,” he expounded, his voice imbued with determination, “is to translate research into real-world impact.” Indeed, Thammasat’s synergy with local authorities and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration breathes life into groundbreaking initiatives—from caregiver training to holistic community wellness programs, and pioneering innovation projects all poised to revolutionize the landscape for the golden years of Thailand’s elderly citizens.
This is just another academic exercise that will lead nowhere. They need real action and less talking!
I disagree. Initiatives like these can propel us towards change. Sometimes, discussion leads to tangible results.
Maybe, but I’ve seen too many initiatives die on paper.
This really highlights the growing need for comprehensive elderly care solutions, but relying on universities seems risky.
Why risky? Universities are hubs of innovation, shedding light on societal issues with research-based solutions.
Research is helpful, but we need actionable support programs that don’t just remain academic concepts.
Larry D, you’re right. While academic insights are great, collaboration with local governments and NGOs is crucial for real-world impact.
It’s heartening to see Thammasat University leading the charge. Family caregivers truly need more support to be effective.
I wish my grandparents in the village had access to such programs. They’re often left out of these conversations.
There’s hope that these programs will reach rural areas, but it’s a long road ahead.
I hope so too. We need real inclusivity in these efforts.
With our ageing population, it’s surprising we’re not already prioritizing this at a national scale.
Thailand’s cultural respect for elders should drive these initiatives further. It’s part of our identity.
True, but times are changing, and the traditional ways are not enough. We need modern approaches too.
The focus on dementia is crucial. It’s saddening how it isolates individuals before the ‘long goodbye’.
Exactly, it’s often overlooked in comparison to physical ailments, but the emotional toll is heavy.
I commend Thammasat for this program. Education is the foundation of change, but the government needs to back it up.
Just another panel talk. When will we see real changes in elderly support systems?
Foundations are being laid. It takes time, but momentum is building.
Impatience is valid, but patience and pressure can yield progress.
Support for caregivers could prevent so many mental health issues resulting from the stress they endure.
Let’s hope this isn’t another forgotten promise. Our elders deserve our utmost effort.
Collaborations across academic disciplines, like Thammasat is doing, can bring diverse solutions to the table.
Definitely, interdisciplinary approaches broaden the scope and depth of solutions.
We should take a cue from countries like Japan and learn from their mistakes and successes.
Japan’s challenges are a perfect warning for us. We need to act before it’s too late.
This is a definite step forward. Community-based solutions are effective as they cater to local needs.
I hope they consider the unique needs of each community, as a one-size-fits-all approach rarely works.