ACCESS PATTERN FOR SOCIAL SECURITY FOR THE ELDERLY IN SARABURI PROVINCE

Abstract

This research has the following objectives: 1) to study the problems of access to social security for the elderly in Saraburi Province; 2) to develop guidelines for accessing social security for the elderly in Saraburi Province; and 3) to present a model for accessing social security for the elderly in Saraburi Province. It is a qualitative research. 24 key informants were specifically selected. The tools used were structured interviews and content analysis.

1) The accessibility of social security for the elderly in Saraburi Province has strengths, including prepared personnel, financial support, and volunteers to care for the elderly. However, weaknesses include unstable incomes, informal debt, difficulty in traveling, poor health, and a lack of group formation, career opportunities, and religious opportunities. Furthermore, crises/problems related to the economy, health, facilities, and lack of social interaction have been identified, all of which negatively impact the mental well-being of the elderly.

2) Improving access to social security for the elderly is categorized into five dimensions: Economic: Focusing on pension management, debt management, and promoting supplementary occupations; Environment: Focusing on safe home storage, landscaping, and emergency technology; Health: Focusing on education on exercise, nutrition, and stress management; Social: Focusing on group activities for patient visits and using communication technology to build relationships; Psychic: Focusing on participation in Buddhist activities and listening to sermons for spiritual development.

3) The accessibility model for the elderly emphasizes social networking through the establishment of voluntary clubs or retirement or cremation groups to exchange information and engage in beneficial activities, covering all five dimensions: economic, environmental, health, social, and psychological. This emphasis is placed on the role of group leaders. Fostering relationships through activities that meet needs and using online platforms to connect with information will lead to a secure and happy retirement life.