How Thai elderly respond to mega flood in 2011?

The objective of this study was to explore the response of Thai elderly during mega flood in Phutthamonthon District, Nakhon Pathom Province. This study used quantitative research method. People aged 60 years old over in three subdistricts of Phutthamonthon area were collected. The samples were 238 cases who affected by flood during February to July 2011. Data were taken from the survey of the impact of flood crisis and needs of the elderly in Phutthamonthon District, Nakhon Pathom Province. The study found that average period of flood was 45 days up to 60 days. Most elderly were female (69%) at the age of 70-79 years (75%). The average level of flood was 1.5-2.0 meters (40%). It is also found that 53 percent of elderly responded by temporary migration while 47 percent of them remained in their flooded communities. Some elderly still lived in their house because they wanted to protect their belonging (63%). Even the government provided the flood relief centres but there were only one fourth of elderly (16%) decided moving to flood relief centre. It is indicated that most elderly who had children, relatives, or friends decided to move out easier than elderly who did not have any destination. This number can be the baseline data for the government to prepare enough flood relief centre. From the results of reasons of non-migration, the government should realize this Thai context because they are more likely to be at home and protect their properties without realizing about risk. Therefore, this study will be useful for the government for the preparedness and mitigation plan in the future.