Thammasat University organized the 90th Anniversary Research Fair featuring the launch of 7 Thammasat Innovations for the Elderly Society. The event also included the presentation of the Thammasat Innovation for Society, the “Sit-to-Stand Trainer,” an exercise and rehabilitation device designed to enhance lower limb strength and reduce the risk of falls among the elderly. The device was delivered to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) by Professor Dr. Supasawad Chardchawarn, Acting Rector of Thammasat University, with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tavida Kamolvej, Deputy Governor of Bangkok, receiving the delivery.
Prof. Dr. Supasawad revealed that the exhibition of innovations for the aging society is part of Thammasat University’s 90th anniversary celebrations, reflecting its commitment to using research to improve public quality of life. Thailand’s transition to a super-aged society within the next 10 to 15 years necessitates collaborative care for the elderly, as their increasing dependency and the shrinking working-age population will strain the nation’s resources. The focus is on maintaining the elderly’s quality of life, independence, and self-sufficiency. Thammasat University’s innovations, provided to Bangkok, aim to address these challenges and benefit society as a whole.
“The innovative standing aid that we provided, although it may appear to be a simple device, represents the application of scientific and engineering principles combined with healthcare. This will be highly beneficial in caring for the elderly or patients with limitations in standing, walking, or moving their bodies. All these innovations are a source of pride for Thammasat University, as they demonstrate our ability to develop new research that addresses societal needs and serves the public in accordance with the university’s mission,” stated Prof. Dr. Supasawad.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tavida stated that the support for these devices would be highly beneficial, both for the elderly and for patients at the Intermediate Care Centers (IMC). Furthermore, it will also help reduce the burden on staff, allowing them to care for more patients. This concern goes beyond just preventing falls, as we are also striving to care for healthy elderly individuals by providing them with exercise tools that can help prevent muscle deterioration due to aging.
