SPORTS SCIENTISTS AND THE DYNAMICS OF THAILAND’S AGING SOCIETY: ROLES, CHALLENGES, AND SYSTEMIC PROPOSALS
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Abstract
Thailand is transitioning into a super-aged society, which profoundly impacts the national population structure, healthcare system, and overall social stability. Addressing the needs of older adults requires a holistic approach that encompasses physical, mental, and social well-being. Within this context, sports scientists are recognized as a profession with significant potential to address these challenges. This article, therefore, aims to 1) explain the roles and necessity of sports scientists in managing the dynamics of Thailand’s aging population; 2) analyze their contributions to promoting older adult health through interprofessional collaboration in the digital era; 3) synthesize the challenges in professional development, including human resource production, public recognition, and integration into the national healthcare system; and 4) propose systematic approaches for strengthening the roles of Thai sports scientists through policy and practice. Based on a synthesis of academic literature and contemporary empirical data, the analysis reveals that sports scientists play a vital role in designing age-appropriate physical activity programs and integrating knowledge from diverse fields such as exercise physiology, sports psychology, and health technology. These contributions help reduce dependency and sustainably improve the quality of life for older adults. However, the profession still faces structural limitations, including the absence of a professional certification system, a lack of inclusion in the healthcare system, insufficient mechanisms for stable cross-disciplinary work, and a mismatch between workforce production and societal needs. Therefore, this article proposes systematic strategies, including establishing a professional accreditation body, incorporating the profession into the public health system, developing community-based pilot projects, building cross-sector networks, adapting educational curricula to fit the aging society, and fostering a culture of lifelong learning. These measures are intended to elevate the sports science profession to become a key mechanism within the healthcare system and a strategic agent in Thailand's transition toward a sustainable super-aged society.
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