The Development of the Health-Promoting New Normal Exercise Model for the Elderly in Thanyaburi District, Pathum Thani Province

Abstract

This research aims to 1) study the conditions and needs for support in exercising as a new way of life for the older adults, Thanyaburi District, Pathum Thani Province and 2) develop a model for exercising as a new way of life for the older adults and compare the results of the trial of using a new lifestyle exercise model for the older adults on their physical fitness levels. This research is applied research. By collecting questionnaire data from 350 older people and experimenting with a new lifestyle exercise model for 27 older people. The results of the study found;

1. The average of the needs for service personnel is at high level (M = 4.01, SD = 0.94). The average level of requirements for location, equipment, and facilities was at high level (M= 3.93, SD = 1.04). The average level of the need for promotion and knowledge in exercising was at high level (M =3.80, SD =1.08).

2. The physical fitness level of the older adults after the 8- week trial of the new lifestyle exercise model, the average value of the chair rising test. Elbow flexion test. The 2 minute leg-elevation test and the 2-meter brisk walk test were significantly better than before the experiment at the 0.05 level.

Therefore, the new lifestyle exercise models for the older adults should be encouraged, focusing on developing programs or activities suitable for this group, and creating action guidelines that can be presented to communities or organizations caring for older adults.