Perceptions and Experiences on Mental Health Promotion of Older Thai People: Phenomenological Research

Parichart   Wanwaisart; Matanee  Radabutr; Masarin  Sukolpuk

Authors

Parichart Wanwaisart Boromarajonani College of Nursing Changwat Nonthaburi, Faculty of Nursing, Praboromarajchanok Institute
Matanee Radabutr Boromarajonani College of Nursing Changwat Nonthaburi, Faculty of Nursing, Praboromarajchanok Institute
Masarin Sukolpuk Boromarajonani College of Nursing Changwat Nonthaburi, Faculty of Nursing, Praboromarajchanok Institute

Keywords:

perceptions, experiences, older Thai people, mental health promotion

Abstract

Introduction: Perceptions and experiences in mental health promotion among elderly play a significant role in appropriate activities development, strategic plan, and policy formulation suitable for good mental health promotion in Thai context.

Research objective: To explore meaning of perceptions and experiences in mental health promotion among older Thai people.

Research methodology: The study used a qualitative phenomenological research design. A purposive sampling technique was employed to select fifteen older Thai people aged 60 and over living in Nonthaburi province. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using content analysis.

Results: The results showed that mental health promotion means “living a mindful religious life with positive thinking, sharing in all directions including physical, mental and social according to their roles and duties that contribute to good mental health and happiness.” Seven main themes emerged from data analysis were: 1) Optimistic/Positive thinking, 2) Health literacy, 3) Acceptance, 4) Ceremony, 5) Hobbies, 6) Interpersonal relations, and 7) Giving and Sharing. When the first capital letters of each theme were included, as “PHACHIS,” in Thai pronunciation, it means “approaching” in English. Conclusion: To promote mental health among Thai elderly, perceptions and experiences can be used by applying the “PHACHIS” concept, which means “approaching” older people.

Implication: Nurses should approach older people to promote mental health and give importance to older people, so, they will not be lonely or feel like being abandoned.

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