THE DEVELOPMENT OF A QUALITY CARE MODEL FOR ELDERLY PEOPLE WITH HEALTH PROBLEMS IN PATHUMRAT DISTRICT, ROI-ET PROVINCE

Abstract

This action research aimed to develop and evaluate a quality care model for elderly individuals with health issues. It comprised three phases: 1) Situation analysis, involving 370 elderly with health problems and 19 multidisciplinary professionals and network partners; 2) Model development and implementation with 39 participants randomly selected from the first phase; 3) Outcome evaluation. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired sample t-test, and content analysis.

Results showed that among the 39 elderly participants, 64.10% had dental health problems, 61.54% had vision problems, 61.54% were at risk of falling, and 51.28% had cognitive impairment. The developed model was named "Tum Hom Jom Kham Lam Nam Phu Sung Wai". Statistical tests comparing pre- and post-intervention data revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) in the Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT) and Thai Mental State Examination (TMSE) scores. However, no significant differences were found in vision and dental health problems. Elderly participants reported improved access to care and referrals, with highest satisfaction levels for the geriatric clinic services (4.90 ± 0.28).

Recommendations: Long-term evaluation should be conducted to observe more distinct changes in outcomes. Furthermore, collaboration with network partners should be strengthened to develop support systems that enhance healthcare accessibility for the elderly. Continuous activities to promote elderly functional capacity should be organized. These measures aim to improve the effectiveness of the care model.