The Role of Community Social Workers in Designing Play Programs to Promote Innovative Exercise (Pocket Park): A Case Study of Bueng Yitho Municipality, Pathum Thani Province

Abstract

Healthy Aging is a process in which older adults are able to develop and maintain their ability to perform daily life activities through participatory approaches, where community members collaborate to create an environment suitable for all age groups. This article focuses on presenting the significant role of community social workers in designing and promoting innovative exercise programs, commonly known as Pocket Parks, using the six-step play program design framework as the main conceptual framework.The objective of the study is to examine the role of community social workers in designing play programs to promote innovative exercise (Pocket Park). The research methods include field practice, interviews with older adults, and observation of the use of innovative exercise equipment (Pocket Park). The roles of community social workers in promoting innovative exercise consist of two main aspects: The role in play program design, which includes: 1) Raising awareness and promoting self-care through exercise
2) Developing manuals and demonstrating the use of exercise equipment 3) Conducting physical fitness assessments 4) Practical implementation and recording of exercise activities 5) Organizing small group discussions and group activities and 6) Reflecting on practice, identifying obstacles, and providing continuous encouragement. The role in interdisciplinary teamwork, working alongside physiotherapists and recreation specialists. A key role in promoting enabling factors includes: raising awareness of risks, forming support groups, providing knowledge about equipment use, and creating an appropriate social environment. These are essential factors leading to behavioral change among older adults. Consequently, play programs are of great importance. Key recommendations: Local administrative organizations should encourage interdisciplinary teamwork in play program design, giving emphasis to the role of social workers. Knowledge-sharing activities, guidelines, and communication should be provided to highlight the benefits of exercise equipment, thereby promoting proper and accurate awareness. Furthermore, service provision should be integrated into the operations of local administrative organizations by assigning coaches—such as municipal staff, community leaders, or volunteers—to serve as facilitators who encourage appropriate use of equipment, provide consultation and guidance, and supervise for safety and risk reduction during exercise.