The Role of State Agencies in Promoting Elderly Health: Sustainable Public Policy Management in Thailand

Abstract

Thailand is undergoing a rapid demographic transition, with individuals aged 60 and above projected to account for nearly 20% of the population by 2030. This shift presents critical challenges for public health systems, social services, and government poli cy implementation. State agencies play a central role in promoting elderly health through policy formulation, coordination, and evaluation. This study explores the role of Thai state agencies in implementing sustainable elderly health policies, emphasizing local governance, interagency coordination, and academic collaboration. A qualitative research approach was employed, including document analysis of national and local policy reports, program evaluations, and semi-structured interviews with government off icials, local administrators, public health practitioners, and representatives from Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University (SSRU). Findings indicate that interagency coordination, participatory community -based programs, and evidence-based policy design signific antly enhance policy sustainability. Academic institutions contribute expertise through research and social innovation initiatives, which facilitate the integration of evidence, community engagement, and policy implementation. Challenges identified include fragmented funding, limited local administrative capacity, and digital literacy gaps among older adults. The study recommends strategies to strengthen institutional coordination, sustainable financing, digital inclusion, and participatory monitoring. These findings offer actionable guidance for policymakers to develop resilient and effective elderly health policies in Thailand.