The Quality of Life of Patients with Chronic Diseases and their Health Promotion through Dhamma Practice at Makarak Hospital in Kanchanaburi

Abstract

Objective: To study the viewpoints and the methods of looking after chronically ill patients according to modern medicine, and to study the effects of Dhamma Practice in improving the quality of life of such patients

Materials and Methods: This is a Quasi Experimental research. Basic data were collected from questionnaires and patients’ quality of life by WHOQOL-BREF–THAI, before and after the training by Dhamma Practice.   

Result: Chronic Diseases need long-term treatment and diseases like Heart disease, Stroke, Cancer and Diabetes, are the cause of most deaths. These diseases cannot be cured, but can be controlled by using the medicines and an integrated approach for treatment. From the Quasi Experimental research, it was found that the patient with chronic diseases who improved their quality of life by Dhamma Practice enjoy better health. From the Pre-Test and Posttest, it was found there is a statistically significant difference at the .05 level.

Conclusion: The Dhamma Practice, which is a combination of prayer, meditation, Dhamma discussions, controlled consumption, exercise, emotional control, and the daily routine practice by the clock of life is an option that can enhance the quality of life of patients with chronic diseases.

Key Words: Quality of Life, Chronic Disease, Dhamma Practice