5 Factors to choose good nursing home

Statement from the Thai Elderly Care Trade and Health Service Association
Subject: 5 Recommendations for Choosing an Elderly Care Center with Confidence
Date: 7 October 2026
Following news regarding elderly care that may not meet standards — which has caused concern among service recipients, families, and society — the Thai Elderly Care Trade and Health Service Association wishes to express its concern for those affected and supports relevant authorities in conducting a thorough, fair, and comprehensive investigation, with the safety of service recipients as the top priority.
As an organization that promotes quality care standards and supports operators who are committed, attentive, and conduct their business on the basis of ethics and humanity, the Association offers the following 5 recommendations for selecting and using elderly care center services:
1. Verify Safety and Credibility
Check that relevant licenses match the type of services provided. The center should have protocols for fall prevention, infection control, and medication error prevention, as well as respect for the rights, privacy, and dignity of older persons. It should also allow appropriate opportunities for family visits and inquiries.
2. Assess the Building and Premises
The facility should be clean, well-ventilated, and adequately lit. Walkways and restrooms should be suitable for older persons, with handrails and assistive devices, as well as functional fire exits and evacuation plans.
3. Consider the Quality and Adequacy of Staff
There should be trained caregivers and professional staff according to the needs of service recipients. Staffing levels per shift should be appropriate for the number of residents and their level of dependency, with individualized care plans and regular communication with families.
4. Provide Appropriate Activities and Spaces
The center should offer activities that promote physical health, mental well-being, and social participation, tailored to each individual’s abilities and needs, along with safe areas for rest and recreation — enabling older persons to live with dignity and meaning.
5. Have a Clear Emergency Response System
There should be clear protocols for assessing and responding to emergencies, staff trained in first aid, appropriate equipment, and a system for coordinating hospital referrals, with immediate notification of family members.
The Association sends encouragement to older persons, their families, and responsible operators. It remains committed to serving as a coordinating body, providing impartial academic information, and working jointly with the government, private sector, and civil society to strengthen Thailand’s elderly care system.
Every older person deserves care that is safe, of high quality, and respectful of human dignity.
Dr. Kaengpong Tangarunsanti
President, Thai Elderly Care Trade and Health Service Association