A Study of Community Participation in the Elderly Health Care Promotion in Bangkok, Thailand

Abstract

This study aims to: 1) investigate the level of participation in promoting healthcare for the elderly in the Bang Khen Market community, Lak Si District, Bangkok; 2) compare the opinions of questionnaire respondents regarding the participation in promoting elderly healthcare based on individual factors; and 3) examine the challenges, obstacles, and suggestions for enhancing the participation in promoting elderly healthcare in the Bang Khen Market community, Lak Si District, Bangkok. The research utilizes a sample group comprising 81 family caregivers of the elderly in the Bang Khen Market community, Lak Si District, Bangkok. Data collection tools include questionnaires, and statistical analyses involve percentages, means, standard deviations, t-tests, and f-test (One-way ANOVA). The study reveals that: 1) the overall level of participation in promoting elderly healthcare is at a moderate level; 2) caregivers with different gender, age, education levels, and occupations show similar levels of participation in promoting elderly health, while those with different marital status and monthly income exhibit significant differences in participation at a statistical significance level of 0.05; and 3) the identified challenges and suggestions for enhancing participation in promoting elderly healthcare include caregivers lacking knowledge and understanding of elderly care, as well as insufficient coordination with government agencies providing guidance, knowledge, and consultation. Key recommendations involve community-based training for caregivers, provision of elderly care manuals, and the establishment of networks and technologies to promote elderly care.