Exploring predictive factors of family relationships among older adults: a study in community settings 10.55131/jphd/2025/230319
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Abstract
This cross-sectional study aimed to identify predictive factors of family relationships among older adults in Ban Rong Subdistrict, Ngao District, Lampang Province. A total of 450 older adults were selected using multi-stage random sampling. Data were gathered from May to June 2024 through structured interviews. Descriptive and multiple linear regression analyses were performed to identify predictors of family relationships. Results indicated that the sample was predominantly female (mean age = 70.23 years), educated at the primary level, married, and engaged in agricultural occupations. The most common comorbidity was hypertension, while most participants reported having sufficient income. Social support emerged as the primary predictor of family relationships (β = 0.493, p < 0.001), followed by self-efficacy (β = 0.171, p < 0.001), income sufficiency (β = 0.130, p = 0.001), and leisure activities (β = 0.118, p = 0.001). These factors collectively accounted for 44.2% of the variance in family relationships (R² = 0.442). These findings underscore the importance of targeting social support to enhance family dynamics among older adults in community settings. Strengthening support mechanisms, advocating for health-promotion policies, and fostering an environment that encourages self-efficacy and leisure activities may collectively improve the quality of life and well-being of older adults in Thailand.
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