Problems and Needs of the Elderly in Northern Thailand Remote Area

Abstract

     The purpose of this study was to examine and predict factors influencing the problems and needs of the elderly who live in remote areas in Northern Thailand. A cross-sectional study in which 795 elderly people, 60 years of age or older, in Jadeekham subdistrict, Phayao province, participated in a screening from November to December 2011. Health assessments were conducted on the problems and needs for services and on the status of physical, functional, cognitive, emotional, nutritional, and social factors of particpants. Data were collected by a research team and were analyzed using descriptive statistics and stepwise multiple regression. In general, the elderly in Jadeekham subdistrict had more than one disease, limited functional capabilities, and poor behavior related to health. They had a low level of cognitive ability, a high level of depression, and a high level of need for financial and psychological support. The factors contributing to financial and psychological service need were low functional capabilities, lack of caregivers, lack of exercise, low cognitive ability, age, sex, and depression. The study results suggest that the health problems and needs of the Thai elderly living in a rural area are multiple and complex. Awareness of health problems and needs should help officials plan and design health programs and implement interventions for the care of the elderly. Cooperation between local governments, the health sector, and the community for taking care of the elderly population who live in remote areas are recommended.