Respect for elders is still very much intact in Thailand, as it is in many poor countries. There is some sense to it. One doesn't have to be necessarily wise or clever to achieve a modicum of longevity in a land of plenty, but it takes some doing to reach old age in a meager economy fraught with hazards and sparse medical care. Elders, especially in the rural reaches of Thailand, receive great respect from their juniors. A was fortunate enough to attend a special ceremony honoring the elders of the village she visited in Isan. She found it a little disconcerting to find herself to be regarded as an elder herself and also treated with deference. Like... 'What are you talking about? Who me? Not yet, please." She participated in the ceremony, was warmly included and made many friends, despite the language barrier. It was a moving experience and, of course, her camera was humming along with her heart.
