Effectiveness of the Care Model for Dependent Elderly at BanPong Municipality, BanPong District, Ratchaburi Province.

Abstract

        The purposes of this quasi -experimental research were to 1) develop a care model for the dependent elderly at BanPong Municipality, Muang District, Ratchaburi Province 2) study the effectiveness of the care model for the dependent elderly and 3) to evaluate the satisfaction of the elderly after approaching the model. The sample group consisted of 50 dependent elderly people. The research instrument composed of the care model for the dependent elderly, daily routine assessment form, and satisfaction assessment form. The reliability using Cronbach's alpha coefficient was 0.92. The data were then analyzed by using descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation and paired t– test. The study results revealed as follows:

           1. The care model for the dependent elderly consisted of 4 phases; assessment of problems and needs of the dependent elderly, development of the potential of caregivers, participatory care for the elderly, and evaluation of the elderly care.

          2.  After using the care model for the dependent elderly, it was found that the mean scores were statistically significantly higher than before using the model (p < 0.01).

          3. The satisfaction of dependent elderly after using the care model, it was found that the overall score on satisfaction was at a very good level (M=4.88, SD=0.33).

        The developed elderly care model can promote better activity daily living. Moreover, to provide caring for the elderly more efficient, the caregivers and communities should continue collaboration in health care for the elderly as a network pattern.