Development of a Community-Based Depression Prevention Model for Elderly Patients with Chronic Diseases at Phia Phao Health Promoting Hospital, Kham Nam Saep Sub-district, Warin Chamrap District, Ubon Ratchathani Province

Abstract

This action research aimed to develop a model for preventing depression in elderly patients with chronic non-communicable diseases through a participatory process at Phiaphao Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospital, Khamnamsaep Subdistrict, Warinchamrap District, Ubon Ratchathani Province, conducted from June to October 2025. Participants included 50 health personnel and community network partners, and 40 older adults at risk of depression. The research was implemented in four stages: planning, action, observation, and reflection. Qualitative data were typological and analysis inductively, and quantitative data were analyzed descriptive and paired t-test.

Key challenges identified were incomplete depression screening, a high proportion of elderly patients living alone with multiple chronic conditions and lacking primary caregivers, and limited knowledge, awareness, and preventive strategies among caregivers and community members. The research team developed a four-stage approach: planning community-based activities, implementing the “Community-Integrated Mental Health Promotion for Older Adults” through eight activities, observing access and coordination, and reflecting to improve coverage and continuity. The developed model was “Phiaphao Model” consists of eight components: Participation, Health Literacy, Integration, Assistance, Prevention, Home Visit, Assessment, and Outcome. Evaluation revealed significant improvements in older adults’ risk perception, self-worth, social support, participation, and preventive behaviors (p < 0.001), while depression scores decreased and quality of life increased significantly (p < 0.05).