Mr. Samat Patmasukhon, Director-General of the Department of Employment, stated that the Department prioritizes promoting employment opportunities for people of all ages—especially older adults who remain capable and ready to work—enabling them to generate income and achieve self-reliance. This initiative aligns with current circumstances and Thailand’s transition into an aging society. It serves as a vital mechanism for improving quality of life and strengthening the Thai economy, as individuals aged 60 and above possess a wealth of knowledge, skills, and life experience that can be applied to professional roles and passed on to younger generations. The Department of Employment is actively working to expand job opportunities tailored to the potential of older adults by fostering collaboration across all sectors, primarily through two key initiatives: the Project to Promote the Employment of Older Adults and the Project to Create Jobs and Careers for Vulnerable Groups. To support older adults in securing employment, earning an income,and achieving a better quality of life.

In the 2026 fiscal year, 1,103 older adults utilized the Department of Employment’s job placement services, with 946 individuals successfully placed in jobs—generating an estimated annual income of 116 million baht. Furthermore, the Department promoted self-employment among older adults; 2,360 individuals participated, with 1,840 successfully establishing their own independent work, generating 6,468,675 baht in income. Additionally, 603 older adults received training to become instructors and share their wisdom, with 421 of them subsequently finding work in this capacity, earning 2,193,250 baht. These efforts were complemented by partnerships with 17 employers and business establishments—formalized through Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs)—to expand employment channels. This provides older adults with opportunities to engage in roles suited to their age and abilities, such as service-oriented positions, administrative tasks, part-time work, and other roles that pose no risk to their health or safety.

The Department of Employment prioritizes the promotion of suitable, high-quality employment for older adults. The goal extends beyond mere job placement; it seeks to ensure that older adults can work happily, earn a steady income, and recognize the value of their own potential. Retirement does not mark the end of one’s working life; rather, it is a new phase where one can leverage existing experience to build a career and contribute meaningfully—and proudly—to society. By transforming the energy of this experienced generation into a vital force for driving the national economy, the Department of Employment has enhanced its service channels to ensure that older adults can access employment opportunities more conveniently and comprehensively. Through the “Thai Mee Ngam Tham” (Thais Have Jobs) platform, users can find job openings that match their skills and experience. Additionally, the “Freelance Workers” platform offers older adults opportunities to take on work or pursue self-employment based on their individual aptitudes—all at no cost. Those who are unable to use these online services, or who would like to receive professional guidance and job placement assistance, may contact any provincial employment office, the Bangkok Employment Offices (areas 1–10), a Smart Job Center, or the Department of Employment hotline at 1506 (press 2).

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