Evaluating Thai Traditional Medicine Health Promotion Program, Lampang Province: 3S Anti-Aging

Abstract

Introduction and Objectives: This research aimed to evaluate of the 3S Anti-Aging (Style-Smile-Smart Lampang Anti-Aging Program) implementation, a health promotion initiative utilized Thai traditional medicine for pre-elderly and elderly populations in Lampang Province. The evaluation employed the CIPP Model (Context, Input, Process, Product) as a conceptual framework to examine the relevance of the program’s context, inputs, effectiveness of implementation process, and achieved outcomes.

Methods: The study employed mixed methods to collect data from two sample groups: 26 multidisciplinary professionals who participated in the program and 130 individuals who joined the activities organized by these professionals. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis.

Results: The study findings revealed that the program aligned well with the context and needs of the local community, promoted holistic health through Thai traditional medicine, and integrated seamlessly with the existing activities of senior citizen clubs in the area. The multidisciplinary professionals who underwent training were able to effectively transfer their knowledge to the community. Despite certain limitations—such as insufficient personnel, high workloads, coordination issues, and budget constraints—the program maintained continuous operations. Following the training, the multidisciplinary group successfully established 60 anti-aging centers in the area, organized 57 activities over two fiscal years, and engaged more than 5,640 participants. The most popular activities included nine-square step exercises, facial massages, resistance band exercises, herbal food, and herbal skincare. These centers played a critical role in providing accessible health services through the integration of health promotion with Thai traditional medicine. This approach sparked interest among participants in utilizing Thai traditional medicine for their health care needs, potentially reducing dependency on hospital-based care. However, the study did not observe clear impacts on the volume of services provided by Thai traditional medicine practitioners.

Discussion: This project employed a strategy to enhance health literacy in Thai traditional medicine among multidisciplinary professionals, aiming to develop an integrated and sustainable model for health promotion. Recommendations for improvement included increasing personnel, leveraging technology to support activities, allocating appropriate budgets and resources, enhancing the suitability of activity venues, providing flexibility in scheduling, and strengthening coordination among involved agencies.

Conclusion and Recommendation: The 3S Anti-Aging Program reflected a successful integration of Thai traditional medicine with holistic health promotion and served as a model for scaling up to other areas to sustainably improve the quality of life for the population.