Implementation of the Elderly Subsistence Allowance Policy of Local Government Organization, Nakhon Ratchasima Province: Case Study of Municipality in Nakhon Ratchasima Province

Abstract

The research purposes were to study  1)  the implementation of the elderly subsistence allowance policy of local government organizations in Nakhon Ratchima Province, 2)problems and obstacles in implementation of the elderly subsistence allowance policy of local government organizations in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, and  3)recommendations for implementing the elderly subsistence allowance policy. This research was the mixed method. The study was conducted in 4 Town Municipalities, including Bua Yai Town Municipality, Sikhio Town Municipality, Mueang Pak Town Municipality, and Pak Chong Town Municipality. The key informants included the group of 28 executives and operating staff.  The research instrument was the structured interview form, analyzed by factor analysis.

The research findings were:     

1.The implementation of the elderly subsistence allowance policy of the local government organizations in Nakhon Ratchasima Province  found that the implementation of the elderly subsistence allowance policy was determined by the central agencies with the social welfare officers allocating the budget for paying the elderly subsistence allowance to the elderly, especially the town municipal offices, the registration center, that has adequate materials and equipment.

2.The problems and obstacles in implementation of the elderly subsistence allowance policy of local government  organizations in Nakhon Ratchasima Province found the personnel and operational staff were insufficient due to  many other overlapping responsibilities, such as  promoting and caring for the welfare of children, youth, women, disabled people and underprivileged people.  And the elderly subsistence allowance was not sufficient to cover living expenses.

3.As for the recommendations,  the personnel should be developed and strengthened by attending training to increase their potential and expertise, always study relevant laws, and allocate appropriate budget funds.  Additional findings:   cooperation with administrators and operational staff will make the implementation of the elderly subsistence allowance policy successful.