Dementia is a global issue; currently, 57 million people are living with the disease, and 850 thousand people are living with the illness in the UK. Where a person diagnosed with dementia should spend their final years is an increasing concern, especially considering the cost of care and availability of suitable facilities.
This situation has become highlighted in the United Kingdom, where families struggling with the challenges of dementia are increasingly seeking care solutions beyond their borders.
One country that has emerged as an alternative is Thailand, historically renowned for its exceptional dental and cosmetic surgery services at more affordable prices.
Over the years, Thailand has earned a reputation for its commitment to high-quality medical care, and now it is expanding this standard of excellence to include specialised support for foreigners living with dementia.
Thailand has incorporated a National dementia strategy and recognises the urgency for the growing need for specialist care for people living with dementia, and is increasingly opening its doors to provide that care.
In this vibrant and welcoming nation, families are finding compassionate and comprehensive care that prioritises the well-being of their loved ones while providing peace of mind amidst the difficult decision of where to care for them.
Nestled in the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai, eight care facilities provide a haven for individuals living with dementia. A mere hour’s flight from bustling Bangkok, Chiang Mai offers a tranquil respite from the capital’s frenzied pace of life.
The Thai people have always held a reputation for being friendly, respectful and caring, which places them in the right frame for the complex job of caring for people living with dementia.
The thought of your loved one being cared for by dedicated, trained, and gentle
people makes this a favourable option for some. I met a man in Thailand who was there with his friend to explore this type of care option. Daniel*, in his early sixties, has early-onset dementia. He lives alone, has never married, and has few family members in the UK.
Having visited Thailand many times over the years, he considers it a second home. Daniel explains to me that it was an easy decision for him, and he is weighing up the pros and cons of such a drastic move, thousands of miles away from home.
A growing number of UK citizens living with dementia are relocating to Thailand for care due to the high costs and limited availability of suitable care homes in the UK.
This choice has been influenced by the high cost of specialist care in the UK, coupled with the extended waiting times to secure suitable care facilities.
Additionally, the appeal of Thailand’s warmer climate serves as an enticing factor for many families considering this option.
Thailand has established itself as a leader in cosmetic and dental surgery, providing superior care to both local and international patients who are seeking the best solutions for their loved ones.
However, deciding to choose care in a foreign country comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
On the positive side, the warm climate is appealing, especially for those coming from colder regions. However, January and February are peak pollution months in Thailand, primarily due to agricultural burn-offs that lead to poor air quality.
This aspect should be taken into account when weighing up the options for care in Thailand. One such care facility is Ban Sabia village; Ban Sabai translates to “Home of well-being and good health”. Nestled in the lush, green foothills of Chiang Mai, it is an ideal setting for calm, relaxing therapeutic care.
In this welcoming environment, elders are regarded as cherished guests, embracing them as members of an extended family. Their unique cultural backgrounds are honoured through a diverse culinary offering, featuring the vibrant flavours of Thai cuisine alongside the comforting staples of traditional Western food.
Each meal is thoughtfully prepared with individual preferences and dietary needs in mind, making for a personalised dining experience that celebrates heritage and enriches their stay.
Rooms and villas are all designed to offer a high quality of comfort, with en-suite and ease of access in mind. Family and friends are welcome to visit and can stay in the village.
Chiang Mai is home to several hospitals equipped to handle emergencies with exceptional service and state-of-the-art medical facilities. These institutions have highly qualified medical personnel experienced in providing outstanding care.
The combination of advanced technology, comprehensive treatment options, and dedicated professionals ensures that patients receive timely medical attention when they need it most.
Whether it’s a minor injury or a critical health issue, the hospitals in Chiang Mai are well-prepared to offer compassionate and professional care. Consistent and accessible forms of communication are always available for family and friends in the UK.
Popular platforms such as Zoom offer video conferencing capabilities that bring loved ones together, fostering face-to-face interaction even from a distance. Email serves as a reliable method for sharing longer messages, documents, and photos, allowing for thoughtful exchanges.
Additionally, WhatsApp offers instant messaging that facilitates quick conversations and the
sharing of multimedia content such as voice notes and images. Ultimately, the choice of communication tools is influenced by the specific preferences and needs of each family member, ensuring that everyone can stay connected in a way that is comfortable and meaningful for them.
The level of care provided is adaptable, encompassing everything from basic support to comprehensive, intensive services. As individual needs evolve, the level of nursing care adjusts accordingly, ensuring that each person receives the amount of attention and assistance required to thrive.
This empathetic approach guarantees that the care remains responsive and personalised, fostering an environment where the individual’s well-being is the highest priority. The Thai holistic approach towards Elders is commendable, and their patience and sincerity help provide stability and trust, essential in creating a safe environment.
Guests who are living with various forms of dementia are provided with dedicated specialist health services to support their evolving condition. This level of care can be provided 24/7 by a dedicated team of carers, providing consistent care.
Language plays a significant role in communication, particularly in Thailand. Whilst many Thai people are proficient in English, especially those working in sectors where English is vital, some words or phrases still get lost in translation.
Fortunately, in our modern society, technology offers ample translation apps and systems that bridge the gap when needed. As a result, the barriers that once seemed formidable are becoming increasingly manageable, making it easier for people to navigate daily interactions.
Whilst Thailand has traditionally been portrayed as an attractive destination for Elders and people living with dementia, the political climate should be a consideration. The nation has a history of instability, marked by military coups and frequent government changes, which can create uncertainty for retirees.
Such events may impact public policies and services essential for long-term residents. Therefore, staying informed about the current political situation is crucial for those considering aged care services in Thailand.
Navigating the complexities of immigration, visas, and residency can be daunting, but the skilled team at Ban Sabai can provide comprehensive support. They will guide you through every detail of the application process and the intricate legal requirements, ensuring you are supported throughout the process.
The matter of managing affairs when a person passes away requires thoughtful attention and care. At Ban Sabai, they take this responsibility seriously by establishing a comprehensive service agreement paired with a power of attorney, thus ensuring the individual’s wishes are thoroughly discussed with their family, providing clarity and comfort during this difficult time.
In addition to these vital arrangements, Ban Sabai collaborates closely with family members to offer compassionate support throughout the entire repatriation process, should they wish to return their loved one to the UK. Their dedicated team is committed to facilitating every step, ensuring that families can focus on honouring their beloved’s memory.
Moving a loved one with dementia to Thailand can be a complex emotional decision with both potential benefits and challenges taken into account. Before making a life-changing decision, it’s crucial to schedule a visit and speak with the management of your chosen care facility.
For some, this alternative path is just what they need to flourish. Ultimately, it’s a
topic of ongoing debate and personal choice.
* All names are fictitious to protect their privacy.
