Thailand now ranks among the world’s top five countries with the highest number of centenarians, boasting more than 45,000 people aged 100 and above. With over 20% of the population now aged 60 or older, the country’s ageing demographics reflect significant progress in healthcare, nutrition and overall well-being.
But as life expectancy rises, experts warn that happiness and quality of life must keep pace.
Speaking at the Bangkok Post Forum ‘Living Well, Living Long: Inspiring the Future of Ageing’, Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, vice-chair of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, shared insights from her personal journey toward better health and mindfulness.
Ms Kobkarn, a former president of Toshiba Thailand, recalled how sudden illnesses among her once-healthy family members prompted her to re-evaluate her own lifestyle.
‘The doctor told me that the three essential elements for health are good exercise, a good diet, and clean air,’ she said.
Taking that advice to heart, she began jogging regularly at Lumphini Park, gradually working up to six laps per session. Physically, her concentration improved; mentally, she found that slowing down and appreciating life’s small joys brought deeper fulfilment.
‘You don’t need to wait until you’re 50 to start exercising. Find a sport that fits your ability and interests – there’s no right or wrong,’ she said.
She emphasised that consistency in building a healthy routine must go hand in hand with a balanced diet. Sharing nutritious meals with loved ones, she added, transforms ordinary moments into meaningful connections.
Now focused on giving back, Ms Kobkarn believes Thailand has the potential to become a global Blue Zone – regions known for longevity and well-being. Many local communities already embody this lifestyle through traditional diets, local plants and sustainable living.
She also promotes the philosophy of a sufficiency economy and supports young people working to preserve local wisdom and create global impact.
‘Sometimes, we forget our purpose,’ she said. ‘Reconnect with your passion and your goals.’
Also speaking at the forum, Wasu Sangsingkaew – a well-known celebrity and former diplomat – shared how discipline and self-awareness developed through sport helped shape his approach to ageing.
‘Being aware of your body’s signals is crucial,’ he said. ‘Even if you’ve been healthy, you must accept the changes that come with age. We are our own best doctors.’
Though tennis once fuelled his competitive drive, recurring injuries led him to shift toward gentler activities such as swimming and fun runs.
On diet, he follows a simple principle: ‘You are what you eat.’ Mr Wasu also adopted mindful eating habits from his time as a Buddhist monk, including stopping before feeling full. He now prefers white meat and plant-based drinks.
‘Dying quickly and peacefully is life’s greatest achievement,’ he reflected. ‘We’re all going to die, but we should strive to live each moment with joy – and that’s the direction modern medicine is heading.’
Looking back, Mr Wasu said true happiness comes from giving – not just material things, but time, kindness and presence.
Quoting former prime minister, the late MR Kukrit Pramoj, he said: ‘True happiness is a small bed and having everything you need within reach.’
‘To reach that state,’ he added, ‘we must first be healthy. Only then can we truly live with peace and joy.’