Thailand taps into silver workforce

With an ageing population and a declining birth rate, Thai companies are increasingly recruiting elderly employees to plug gaps in the labour pool, writes Kuakul Mornkum

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A senior worker cleans a glass window at a KFC outlet.

Thailand has become an "aged society", where more than 20% of its population is 60 or older.

With a shrinking birth rate and a growing elderly population, the country faces challenges in terms of labour and social issues.

The private sector has begun turning to senior workers, recognising their capabilities and bringing them back into the workforce.

The Thai population is gradually declining, while the elderly population is increasing its share of the total.

As of September 2025, the country's population tallied 65.8 million, with 14.1 million individuals older than 60, roughly 21.5%, according to the Department of Provincial Administration. This total includes both Thais and foreigners.

In the first half of this year, there were 201,175 births and 282,582 deaths.

Last month Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul proposed extending the retirement age for public servants to 65, up from 60.

Kobkun Kwuangsuan, a specialist on the elderly from the Department of Older Persons in the Social Development and Human Security Ministry, told the Bangkok Post the challenges facing the elderly are multifaceted, ranging from age-related health issues to economic hardships.

She said the government, relevant departments and the private sector are now prioritising the importance of aged society issues.

In terms of employment, Ms Kobkun emphasised the potential of elderly individuals, citing their attention to detail and resilience.

Moreover, work provides them with opportunities to engage with others in society.

However, she stressed that employment opportunities for the elderly must be focused on their needs, ensuring that job assignments and work environments consider their health limitations.