On March 23, Assoc. Prof. Trairat Jarutthas, Head of the Center of Excellence in Universal Design held a seminar titled In-Depth Look at Senior Housing. He noted that between 2012 and 2018, over 12 senior housing projects were launched, totaling 3,140 units, with 1,521 units (48%) sold and approximately 1,619 units (52%) still available. Many projects have not yet begun construction. He cautioned interested developers to thoroughly study the existing supply, identify successful projects, and analyze their key success factors, as different projects target different customer segments with varying behaviors. After identifying the target audience, developers should then choose locations, design projects, and set prices for both purchase and long-term rental.

           However, over 90% of seniors prefer to stay in their current homes for as long as possible, with only 10% willing to move into these new projects. Consumers should also research the background of these projects, including the reputation of the developers, project completion timelines, and maintenance fees, as there are currently no laws regulating standards for buildings and services for senior housing. Rushing into a purchase could lead to future problems. Therefore, he urged the Ministry of Public Health to expedite the issuance of regulations that would promote the registration of such businesses and gradually tighten standards for future improvements.


           During the seminar, Dr. Kengpong Tangarunsanti, CEO & Founder of Chersery Home and The Senizens Nursing Home also spoke, emphasizing that the key to managing such projects lies in trained staff who are skilled in both healthcare and therapeutic activities, capable of assisting with daily living and reducing depression. For entrepreneurs interested in this sector, he recommended starting with smaller projects to learn the intricacies of management and service before gradually expanding.

           The Center of Excellence in Universal Design was established in 2007 as a research unit focused on creating suitable environments for seniors and people with disabilities. Its goal is to gather data and conduct research related to environments that accommodate these groups. After more than 10 years, it has sought funding from the university to continue its mission of providing architectural design services, interior architecture, landscape architecture, and other related fields. The center collaborates with the private sector on various initiatives, such as conducting research projects, providing equipment to improve homes for seniors, supporting media production, publishing manuals, and organizing training sessions and conferences.

           The Center of Excellence in Universal Design is located at the Physical Environment Learning Center (New Building), 10th Floor, Phaya Thai Road, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok. Tel. 02-218-4354 Fax. 02-218-4354 E-mail: [email protected]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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