Problems in Social Problems in Social Welfare for the Elderly in Lampang Luang Subdistrict Municipality, Koh Kha District Lampang Province

Abstract

               This study aimed to examine the level of problems in social welfare provision for older persons by Lampang Luang Subdistrict Municipality, Koh Kha District, Lampang Province, and to identify guidelines for developing social welfare provision for older persons in this municipality. This study employed a mixed-methods research design. Purposive sampling was used to select both key informants and participants. For the quantitative research, the sample comprised 8 service providers involved in social welfare provision for older persons in Lampang Luang Subdistrict Municipality, Koh Kha District, Lampang Province, and 52 service recipients, totaling 60 participants. Data were collected using questionnaires and analyzed by descriptive statistics. For the qualitative research, key informants included 7 staff members of Lampang Luang Subdistrict Municipality and 8 leaders of elderly groups in the area. Data were collected through group interviews and analyzed using content analysis. The findings revealed that the overall level of problems in social welfare provision for older persons in Lampang Luang  Subdistrict Municipality, Koh Kha District, Lampang Province was at a high level (M= 4.39). Upon examination of specific problem areas, the highest levels were found in health and sanitation, and recreation, both with equal means of 4.45. The proposed guidelines for developing social welfare for older persons consist of two dimensions: management of various areas and promotion of key activities. There should be management approaches ensuring readiness and operational capacity of the municipality and related agencies that provide resources to work collaboratively, together with promoting key activities comprehensively across all areas.