Effective of the Health Volunteer Competency Development Model in Elderly Care on Health Technology for Entering Aged Society

Abstract

Introduction: The systematic development of health volunteers' competencies in elderly care through the use of health technology is crucial for addressing the challenges of an aging society.

Research objectives: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the health volunteer competency development model in elderly care, with a focus on health technology.

Research methodology: This research and development study involved: 1) identifying methods and activities to enhance health volunteers' competencies, particularly in using digital platforms; 2) testing the health volunteer competency development model; 3) comparing competencies before and after implementing the model; and 4) summarizing the findings. The sample consisted of 600 health volunteers from Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan provinces. Research tools included in-depth interviews, workshop questions, and questionnaires evaluating the effectiveness of the digital platform. Data analysis was conducted using content analysis and the Wilcoxon Signed - Rank Test.

Results: The study developed the PBRU DIAMOND Health model, which comprises: P (Participation of health networks): engaging local health networks; B (Based on communal areas): grounding initiatives within communities; R (Reinventing continuity of care): enhancing the continuity of elderly care; and U (University as a cluster of allied health sciences): leveraging university expertise. The model included key components: 1) a management system for developing health volunteers' competencies in elderly care; 2) two short - term training courses: (a) promoting elderly health and (b) managing elderly health; and 3) a digital platform for elderly care with 12 integrated operating systems. The post-implementation assessment revealed that 72.33% of health volunteers met the assessment criteria for knowledge, skills, and attitudes. Additionally, 58% successfully achieved the elderly care plan criteria across three consecutive evaluations. Volunteers also reported statistically significant improvements in satisfaction with recording elderly data, as well as ease of use in data security and management.

Conclusions: The PBRU DIAMOND Health model serves as a prototype for enhancing health volunteers' competencies by integrating their existing and newly developed skills in specific characteristics, knowledge, practical abilities, self - concept, and motivation.

Implications: Educational institutions, health departments, and local agencies should adopt and expand this model to neighboring sub - districts, while promoting knowledge exchange forums to support broader implementation.