Driving the Creative Economy with Elderly Workers in Pathum Thani Province

Abstract

       This qualitative research aims to 1) examine the creative economy of Pathum Thani Province, including its potential creative industries, local policies, infrastructure, and factors conducive to development; 2) investigate the current situation of elderly workers participating in the province's creative economy; and 3) propose strategies for developing and promoting the role of elderly workers in the province's creative economy. The key informants comprised 57 individuals in three main groups: (1) representatives from agencies, organizations, and groups involved in driving elderly labor; (2) elderly workers from both the formal and informal sectors, four from each of the province's seven districts; and (3) elderly labor leaders and local leaders involved in entrepreneurship, two from each of the seven districts. The research instruments were semi-structured interview and observation forms used in in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The data were then analyzed through descriptive analysis and summarization.
       The findings revealed that 1) the creative economy of Pathum Thani Province has strong development potential, as its policies align with national strategies and it is supported by infrastructure and favorable conditions. For example, the province has adopted a vision and development plan to become a “Metropolitan Hub of the Creative Economy,” promoting the integration of the creative economy, digital technology, and innovation into the elderly labor force and all relevant sectors. The area is also equipped with social capital in every dimension, such as local resources, cultural traditions, educational institutions, and others. 2) Regarding the situation of elderly labor in Pathum Thani, most elderly workers are highly capable, drawing on prior experience in various levels of business and industry; they also hold positive attitudes and are ready to continue working. 3) The proposed strategies for developing policy and promoting the role of elderly workers in the creative economy of Pathum Thani Province are as follows: (1) all relevant agencies should integrate their work on a shared, efficient database; (2) the development of new knowledge and skills that support elderly workers should be emphasized urgently and continuously; and (3) key creative economy sectors that align with new market demands should be supported.