Guidelines for Developing an Elderly-Friendly City in Udon Thani Municipality

Abstract

Udon Thani Municipality conducts research on recommendations for establishing an elderly-friendly city. The goals are twofold: 1) to investigate the conditions of an elderly-friendly city in Udon Thani Municipality, and 2) to provide guidelines for developing an elderly-friendly city in the same municipality. The research is conducted by evaluating documents particularly  those related to  case studies of communities that are favorable to seniors, ad well as various  documents relating to the elderly residents of Udon Thani Municipality. Data Collection’ is carried out through questionnaires administered to a sample group of 500 persons alongside small group discussions with key informants (a group of 15 people), who contribute to developing guidelines for the elderly.

According to the study's findings, the elderly in the sample expressed a high level of opinion regarding elderly-friendly home conditions, with an average score of 3.54, followed by respect and social bonding high level of 3.37. The sections with few viewpoints include a low level, with an average of 2.70. In terms of citizenship and work for the aged, the average is 1.89, as well as social involvement and sympath4 to the elderly. The study suggests that However, Udon Thani Municipality should establish policies to foster a pleasant community for elderly. One significant strategy is to establish a structure for caring for the elderly, such as collaboration between local government organizations and local governments. It is also recommended to conduct surveys among the target demographic of elderly families. This approach is an important guideline for increasing awareness and encouraging senior households to maintain their own living environments.