The Empowerment of Family and Community Participation Model for Health Behavioral Modification to Prevent Cerebrovascular Disease Among at Risk Group: A Case Study at Ban Phrao Sub-district, Pa Phayom District, Phatthalung Province

Abstract

This participatory action research aimed to understand the health behaviors for preventing cerebrovascular disease (CVD) among at-risk groups, and to develop a model for empowering and enhancing family and community participation in behavior modification to prevent CVD among at-risk groups. The participants comprised four groups: 1) 42 individuals who were at high risk of CVD; 2) 42 family members of individuals who were at high risk of CVD; 3) two registered nurses working at the primary care center; and 4) 10 healthcare volunteers. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis. The results showed that the health behaviors on CVD preventing consisted of four strategies: 1) reducing salt consumption and eating more vegetables, 2) doing exercise, 3) taking hypertension medication, and 4) participating in community activities. The model for empowering and enhancing family and community participation in behavior modification to prevent CVD comprised four steps: 1) building relationship and trust, 2) empowering and moving toward the goal, 3) synergizing the power of family, and 4) integrating support from the community. The model developed in this study provides a base guideline for healthcare providers at primary care centers to improve prevention of stroke for individuals in the community.