Readiness for Changes in Health Behavior among Older Persons: A Case Study of College for Active Ageing under Kut Chum Phattana Subdistrict, Kut Chum District, Yasothon Province

Abstract

The objectives of this study were: 1) to study readiness for changes in health behavior among elderly who are members in the project of college for active acing under Kut Chum Phattana Subdistrict, Kut Chum District, Yasothon Province; 2) To study the administrative plan of the project; and 3) To propose policy suggestion based on the policy and direction of the project. Data were obtained from 56 key informants who were members of the project, and 5 project administrators. The research instruments were questionnaire for self-evaluating readiness for changes in health behavior among older persons of members and non-structured interview for administrators. The obtain data from the interview were analyzed by frequency and weight rating. The data from administrators were analyzed by content analysis. It was found that 1) One-fourth of the members were not interested in the health whereas two-third was interested in their health. Fifty percentages of the members reported that they were trying to change their health behavior in food consumption and weight control. They tried to plan their behavioral change and carried out their practice seriously. One-third reported that they kept up their behavior until their felt that they could change their behavior successfully. 2) The administrative plan of the project, it was found that there were many planning and activities for the members in social, health, and learning activities. There were also activities for health rehabilitation and welfare. 3) Guidelines for changes in health behavior and provide policy suggestion based on the policy and direction of the project include 3.1) a systematic survey for needs of members, 3.2) establish database for health of the members, 3.3) organize supporting activities in form of integrated management for both personnel and local administration for the strength of the project.