Health and Health Promotion for Elderly in a Community: A Case Study of Srithan Community, Naimueang Sub-district, Mueang District, Khon Kaen Province

Abstract

The objectives of this research are: 1) to investigate the health of elderly members in Srithan community, Mueang district, Khon Kaen province; 2) to study the health promotion of the elderly members in the community; and 3) to analyzed conditions important for to health promotion in the community. The research was conducted following the qualitative research methodology. Data were collected mainly through in-depth interviews with selected case studies, combined with non-participant observation and informal interviews.  Data analysis was done using typological analysis, data synthesis and interpretation methods. Results show that Srithan community has been continuously developed in a direction that is supportive of the health promotion of its elderly members. All elderly members selected as case studies have 1-2 diseases mainly chronic and non-communicable. Good guidance is crucial for health promotion among the elderly to enable their self-reliance. Necessary conditions related to elderly health promotion include the physical condition of each elderly individual, health behavior adaptation, family, a voluntary group in the community, environmental conditions, community location, and local political support.  An important suggestion was made to related organizations that a center for quality – of - life development should be established in the community so that the elder members can participate in related activities, and exchange health information to improve their physical, mental, social, and intellectual dimensions.