BUDDHIST INTEGRATION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF HOLISTIC HEALTH FOR THE ELDERLY AT THE PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE CENTERS UNDER THE BANGKOK METROPOLITAN

Abstract

Objectives of this research article were: 1. To study the development of holistic well-being among the elderly at public health service centers under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration; 2. To examine factors influencing this development; and 3. To propose a Buddhist-integrated approach to enhance such well-being, conducted by the mixed research methods. The quantitative data were collected from 385 samples using a questionnaire and analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and stepwise multiple regression analysis. The qualitative data were obtained through in-depth interviewing 18 key informants and focus group discussions with 10 participants, and were analyzed using descriptive content interpretation.

The findings revealed that: 1. The overall level of holistic well-being was high, with physical well-being receiving the most attention, followed by mental, social, and intellectual dimensions. 2. Significant influencing factors included five management component, namely, manpower, budget, materials, systems, and morality accounting for 46.6% of the variance; and the Bhavana 4: Kaya-bhavana; Sila-bhavana; Citta-bhavana and Panna-bhavana, these accounting for 52.7 percent. 3. The integration of Buddhist principles encouraged the elderly to engage in physical exercise, participate in community activities, observe the Five Precepts, cultivate compassion, and live mindfully, combined with effective organizational management strategies. This holistic approach contributed to the comprehensive development of well-being in all dimensions; physical, mental, social, and intellectual. Moreover, it enhanced self-worth, reduces psychological dependency, and provided opportunities for the elderly to play active and meaningful roles in their communities, laying the foundation for a purposeful and fulfilling life in their later years.