Appropriate Housing Improvement Guideline for Elderly in Local Community: Case Study Talat Sai Subdistrict, Nakhon Ratchasima

Abstract

At present, the improvement of elderly housing in local communities lacks appropriate guidelines. The objectives of this research were: 1) to collect data on the elderly, social and economic conditions, housing conditions and behavior concerning usability in Talat Sai Subdistrict, Prathai District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, and 2) proposing appropriate housing improvement guideline for elderly in local community. The sample was divided into 2 group: 1) the group of key Informants comprising 10 people and 2) the group of elderly comprising 13 people. This research proceeded with qualitative method by fieldwork survey, in-depth interview and focus group discussion. The results of the study found that most of the elderly had chronic disease and physical problems. Most elderly lived alone and fell by stumbling outside their houses on the walkway. The characteristics of the housing, most are single-story houses. The problems with the condition of the house and living space were found to be bedrooms/sleeping area, living area, kitchen area, bathrooms in the house/bathrooms outside the house, walkways inside the house, balconies, walkways around the house, parking spaces, and kitchens outside the house have physical problems and affect the daily life of the elderly. The results of the study lead to guidelines of appropriate housing improvement for elderly in local community. The proposed housing improvement guidelines were implemented to improve two elderly houses in the Talat Sai Subdistrict community area with community participation. The guidelines for improving appropriate housing for elderly in local communities can be applied to communities with similar contexts. Additionally, local administrative organizations that have a direct role can apply this in action plan decision further.