POLICY-ORIENTED GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPING INDICATORS OF INADEQUATE INCOME AMONG THE ELDERLY UNDER THE MINISTRY OF INTERIOR REGULATION

Abstract

This research aims to study the development of appropriate insufficient income indicators for elderly individuals eligible for living allowances under the Ministry of Interior Regulation on Criteria for Payment of Elderly Living Allowance by Local Administrative Organizations, B.E. 2566. The research employs a qualitative research methodology through documentary analysis of relevant laws, policies, and criteria related to elderly living allowances. Data analysis utilizes keywords based on poverty concepts, reflecting contexts closely related to the insufficient income situation of the elderly. The research findings reveal that appropriate indicators can be synthesized into three dimensions, each comprising key components: 1) Economic Dimension, including 1.1) Total income of the elderly, 1.2) Basic expenses, and 1.3) Debt burden; 2) Social Dimension, including 2.1) Access to public services, 2.2) Access to government/local services, and 2.3) Household status and vulnerability; and 3) Health Dimension, including 3.1) Health status of the elderly, 3.2) Ability to work, and 3.3) Health expenses. The researchers propose the integration of data between government agencies and the promotion of community roles in screening vulnerable groups. Additionally, it is recommended to expand research to various areas across the country to provide policy data for developing fair, flexible indicators that respond to the long-term context of Thai society.