Seriously asking for a friend..

US passport

Over 60..

Is there a visa you can get that requires not having XXX dollars.....

Would it be best for someone that wants to hang out in Thailand 6-9 months out of the year and use it as a base for traveling elsewhere ..for a couple years....to get the tourist stamp at the airport and not get a visa?

I'm a bit confused myself at times ..so I don't know what to tell her over here in the states....any help would be appreciated... please and thank you