The Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth), in collaboration with Chulalongkorn University, Chiang Mai University, Thammasat University, Mahasarakham University, and Prince of Songkla University, recognizes the importance of preparing the environment for an “Aging Society”. Therefore, they have established the Universal Design Center for All, aimed at being a hub for collecting, developing knowledge, research, and local innovations. It will serve as a repository of equipment and tools suitable for the elderly, functioning as a resource bank and providing consultation, guidance, and education on adapting living spaces to better suit the needs of older adults.

          On Saturday, June 9, 2018, the Universal Design Center for All at Chulalongkorn University (Chula UDC), led by Associate Professor Trairat Jarutath, the head of the center, was officially launched. The event was attended by Ms. Thanaporn Phromsuwan, Director-General of the Department of Older Persons, Associate Professor Phanchalat Suriyothin, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Architecture at Chulalongkorn University, Ms. Phoranee Phuprasert, Director of the Population Health Support Office at ThaiHealth, and Mr. Sanit Kasuwat, a member of the public-private partnership for social development (E6), who participated in the opening ceremony. Various activities were held, including tours of the UDC, body measurements, and booths showcasing equipment and knowledge on home modifications for the elderly. Presentations were made by Assistant Professor Kittiarun Sirisuk on creating a fall-proof home (indoor environment) and Assistant Professor Pawadee Angsusing on fall-proof homes and therapeutic gardens (outdoor environment). This provided the attendees, which included elderly members from various senior clubs, seniors from the communities around Chulalongkorn University, university staff, and seniors from Bangkok and surrounding areas, along with their families—approximately 100 people—with valuable insights into adapting their homes to better suit their needs. The equipment displayed also garnered significant interest from the participants.

          Interested individuals can visit the sample room at the Universal Design Center for All at Chulalongkorn University, located on the first floor of the Faculty of Architecture building (formerly the Samyan Theater) on Chula 42 Alley. This sample room showcases a space and equipment suitable for the elderly, with staff available to provide guidance. In the future, there will be a market for elderly equipment that gathers various related tools. You can follow updates on announcements or exciting activities via Line: chula.udc, Facebook: universaldesigncenter  on weekdays from Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (for weekends and public holidays, please make an appointment in advance).

Thank you for the information from www.chula.ac.th