Holistic Quality of Life Enhancement Model of the Older Adults in the New Normal

Abstract

Background: Older adults in Nawang Subdistrict are experiencing social, economic, and technological changes in the New Normal, affecting their lifestyles and well-being. Meanwhile, health promotion encompasses all dimensions of well-being. Therefore, this study aimed to examine factors influencing the holistic quality of life of older adults, develop a quality-of-life enhancement model, and evaluate its appropriateness by experts.

Methods: A mixed-methods research design was employed. The quantitative phase involved 256 older adults eligible for the elderly allowance for fiscal year 2024 under the Nawung Subdistrict Administrative Organization, Mueang District, Phetchaburi Province. Data were collected using questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and stepwise multiple regression. The qualitative phase involved in-depth interviews with nine older adults, and the findings were used to develop the model. Five experts reviewed and certified the model. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis.

Results: The holistic well-being factors and quality of life of older adults in the New Normal are overall high. Findings revealed that holistic well-being, namely intellectual, psychological, social, and physical well-being, significantly influenced older adults' quality of life in the New Normal, statistically significant at the .01 level. Together, predictive efficiency was 93.40%, and adjusted predictive efficiency was 93.30%. Based on the findings, the “4H-PENTA Model” was developed. The model consists of four well-being dimensions: Healthy Body, Healthy Social, Healthy Mind & Spirit, and Healthy Wisdom, encompassing physical, social, mental, spiritual, and intellectual well-being, respectively. PENTA represents a mechanism driving implementation of the model through collaboration among five relevant sectors. Evaluation results indicated that the developed model demonstrated high appropriateness.

Conclusion: Intellectual, psychological, social, and physical well-being are key determinants of older adults’ quality of life in the New Normal; predictive efficiency was 93.40%. The 4H-PENTA Model provides an integrated framework to promote holistic well-being through multi-sector collaboration. The developed model’s appropriateness was high.