A Development Model of Waste Management of The Elders in Savathee Subdistrict, Muang District, Khon Kaen Province

Abstract

This research is based on participatory action research. The objective of this study was to develop a waste management system by involving the community in caring for the elderly, study the problem and needs for waste management through community participation in caring for the elderly and to study waste management guidelines for the elderly through community participation of Savathee Sub-District Municipality, Mueang District, Khon Kaen Province. The development process consists of: 1) studying the situation of waste management problems by survey data In-depth interviews, focus group, observing the activities of the elderly and organizing a meeting for information exchange waste management guidelines, 2) establish guidelines for waste management to care for the elderly, 3) taking part in the community including taking action, and 4) monitoring and evaluating. The study participants included the elder person and relatives, the leaders and representatives of local government organization, sub-district health promotion hospital, and community organization. Conducted the data checking by triangulation method. Content analysis was brought into analyzing the data.

The research found that guidelines for community waste management for elderly care were clearly defined. As well as implementing waste management projects and activities to improve the quality of life of the elderly in the community such as the garbage bank establishment project, the community waste management campaign with participation project, the elderly fund for environmental care, the fund garbage are merit for the elderly and the learning center for community waste management was established. In addition, Community Based Waste Management Learning Center that successful implementation is achieved through cooperation from all sectors in the area. The waste management guidelines for the elderly by the community consist of household waste management, waste management in communities and public areas and management at the organizational level in the area. Resulting in sustainable waste management for the elderly by the community 

The results of this study indicated that raising awareness of waste management for the elderly by the community to create a healthy environment. The need to establish the involvement of the entire community and building the learning, moreover the network expansion and support the systematic and comprehensive waste management for the elder person.