A Policy-Mix Approach to Elderly Social Welfare: The Case of Local Administrative Organizations in Mueang Phayao District, Phayao Province

Abstract

This research article aims to present the findings on approaches to providing social welfare for the elderly by Local Administrative Organizations (LAOs) in Mueang District, Phayao Province. The study employed a qualitative approach, with data collected through semi-structured interviews with welfare practitioners from six LAOs. Quantitative data were gathered using questionnaires administered to 228 elderly individuals, supplemented by informal interviews. The findings revealed that social welfare for the elderly can be categorized into three characteristics: (1) Welfare provision under centrally assigned mandates primarily features the elderly subsistence allowance, which is the most accessible benefit. Although recipients report varying and growing financial needs, providing different allowance rates based on age is not considered appropriate. Therefore, a uniform allowance rate should be provided to all older persons to ensure equality and fairness across age groups. (2) Collaborative welfare provision operates through local networks involving communities, government agencies, the private sector, and non-profit organizations. Nevertheless, funding is limited, and some benefits mismatch elderly needs; for instance, certain older individuals view the community welfare fund as a financial burden rather than a benefit. and (3) Welfare independently managed by the LAOs, which relies heavily on the annual budget and the consideration of the local administrative council. Factors contributing to the success of welfare provision included community participation and collaboration between government agencies and local networks. Conversely, operational challenges faced by the LAOs included a lack of policy and vision among executives, legislative ambiguity, a shortage of elderly care personnel, and ineffective communication. Regarding the welfare received by the elderly, health welfare was the most accessible, followed by recreation, financial support, and social security, whereas housing welfare was the least accessible. Therefore, the provision of social welfare for the elderly should emphasize the integration of relevant agencies. Furthermore, diverse policy tools should be utilized to formulate LAO policies that genuinely align with the specific needs of the local elderly.