BANGKOK, Thailand – Minister of Social Development and Human Security Nikorn Soemklang has ordered strict nationwide inspections of elderly and disability care centers to raise the safety standards and protect the rights of residents. This directive responds to concerns about family disputes and instances where elderly individuals may have been placed in care facilities without their consent. It follows a recent investigation into a care facility in Kanchanaburi province that raised public concern.
The minister has directed provincial Social Development and Human Security teams to inspect care facilities nationwide, while the ministry also plans to enhance mental health services and coordinate with relevant agencies to increase staffing as Thailand transitions to an aging society. An initial inspection identified 104 residents at the facility in question, as the Department of Health Service Support, in coordination with the Department of Mental Health, deployed doctors and specialists to assess residents’ physical and mental health and determine appropriate care. Provincial social development officials have assisted and protected 25 elderly residents. Two are from Kanchanaburi, and 23 are from other provinces. The remaining 79 residents are not classified as elderly and require psychiatric assessment and appropriate care.
Meanwhile, the ministry has outlined three immediate measures to manage the welfare of affected residents. Residents without relatives or families able to receive them will be temporarily transferred to appropriate care facilities. Those who can return home will be reunited with their families, with ongoing follow-up to ensure their safety and well-being. Meanwhile, residents whose families or registered residences are in other provinces will be referred to the relevant provincial social development offices for continued assistance. The ministry stated that these measures aim to strengthen public confidence and ensure the rights, safety, and appropriate care of vulnerable residents. (NNT)
