The Development of a Health Care Model for the Elderly through Elderly Clubs in Nakhon Ratchasima Province

Abstract

This action research project aimed to (1) examine the current situation, problems, and solutions related to elderly health care; (2) develop a health care model for the elderly through Elderly Clubs; and (3) evaluate the effectiveness of the developed model in Nakhon Ratchasima Province. The study involved three groups of participants: 386 elderly individuals, 15 medical and public health personnel, and 30 stakeholders associated with elderly care. Research instruments comprised document analysis, questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, while qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis using systematic coding and categorization.

 The findings revealed that (1) all three districts had formally established Elderly Club committees and operational plans but faced issues such as low participation among the elderly. These challenges were addressed by organizing diverse activities that encouraged greater engagement. Budgetary limitations were resolved through funding support from local administrative organizations. Before participating in the program, participants’ perceptions of elderly health care were at a high level (mean = 3.82, S.D. = 0.64). (2) The development process identified six key success factors: administrators, community leaders, medical and public health personnel, health network partners, the Elderly Club, and elderly individuals and their families. These stakeholders collaboratively developed a health promotion model tailored to the needs of the elderly. (3) The evaluation of the resulting AgeCare Model demonstrated that it was practical, appropriate, and adaptable to contexts similar to that of Nakhon Ratchasima Province. After program implementation, participants’ perceptions improved to the highest level (mean = 4.25, S.D. = 0.67). The study recommends that relevant agencies allocate adequate funding to support elderly-related activities and sustain long-term health promotion initiatives for the elderly.