Call to stress life quality, palliative careListen to this articleThe next government should reimagine healthcare and welfare policies that support quality of life and palliative care in an ageing society, a recent forum was told. Rather than framing ageing as a burden and relying solely on welfare-based solutions, the discussion emphasised income stability, with government intervention recommended among groups at risk of poverty. Allocating just 0.5% of the budget to support this group could prevent far higher costs later, when individuals become frail, he said. Primary and community-based healthcare services must serve as the first point of contact, providing care ranging from health promotion and disease prevention, such as immunisation and nutrition. This stage includes the treatment of common illnesses, management of chronic conditions like diabetes, rehabilitation, and palliative care, and specialised services when needed.

Source: Bangkok Post January 19, 2026 00:32 UTC