An Obtaining and an Access to Social Welfare for Family with Elders

Abstract

The objectives of this quantitative research were to study 1) gap between obtaining and access to social welfare of families with elders and 2) needs for more social welfare of families with elders. Four hundred samples comprised of elders and elderly caregivers from families in 4 regions of Thailand. Chiang Rai, Ubonratchathani, Supanburi and Nakornsrithammarat, provinces with high rate of elder, were purposive sampling. Interview form was used as research tool. Data was analyzed using descriptive. ANOVA was used to find gap between obtaining and access to social welfare of elders. The results showed that 1) there were gaps between obtaining and access to social welfare of families with elders, both overview and each aspect, excluding legal rights and social welfare rules for families with elders. The aspect with the widest gap was the information about social welfare for families with elders. 2) the needs of both elders and elderly caregivers for more social welfare were as follows, value-added tax exemption for families with elders, more income tax concession, fund assistance for families with elders, database of families with elders, occupational enhancement for family members with elders, the home visit of officers for stress reducing, elderly healthcare knowledge, caregiver assistance center, center for elderly equipment loan, 24 hours emergency vehicle, and funding for cultural activity for elderly and cargivers. Besides, elders needed understanding, listening, respect, caring and interactivity from family members.