Factors associated with health-promoting behaviors among social-bound elderly in Mueang Si Khai Subdistrict, Warin Chamrap District, Ubon Ratchathani Province

Abstract

This study aimed to examine knowledge, attitudes, health-promoting behaviors, factors associated with health-promoting behaviors, and problems related to health promotion among socially active older adults. A sequential explanatory mixed-methods research design was employed. The quantitative sample consisted of 238 socially active older adults selected using systematic sampling, while the qualitative sample consisted of 12 participants purposively selected from socially active older adults, village health volunteers, and personnel responsible for older adult care. Data were collected using questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The research instruments were tested for validity and reliability. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression, with the statistical significance level set at 0.05. The findings showed that the socially active older adults had high levels of knowledge, attitudes, and health-promoting behaviors, at 94.54%, 97.48%, and 73.95%, respectively. Factors associated with health-promoting behaviors were knowledge (adjusted OR = 2.172, 95% CI = 1.377–3.425) and female gender (adjusted OR = 2.231, 95% CI = 1.187–4.191). In-depth interviews revealed that support from family members, village health volunteers, and subdistrict health-promoting hospitals was an important mechanism for promoting health behaviors. However, the older adults still had limitations in controlling food intake, maintaining regular exercise, and maintaining oral health. Therefore, improving health literacy through village health volunteers and subdistrict health-promoting hospitals, together with family support, could promote health behaviors and reduce the risk of dependency among older adults.