The Quality of Life for dependent elderly in Patunnakure Subdistrict Municipality

Abstract

         This mixed method study aimed to examine the quality of life and caring guideline of dependent elderly people in Patunnakure Subdistric Municipality, Tambon Patun, Maetha, Lampang. The population consisted of 25 elderly people who were dependent on the long-term health care service program for the elderly. World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL) – BREF that translated to a Thai version used as semi-structured interview.  Data gathered between October and December 2021. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used to conduct analysis and manage data.

          Although the overall quality of life for dependent elderly people is at a moderate level (μ = 3.32,  = 0.57), the quality of life for individuals was at the lowest, including satisfaction with sexual life, acceptance of self-appearance, and either working at house or living at hospital (μ = 1.88,  = 0.78), (μ = 1.18  = 0.53), (μ = 1.00  = 0.00). Five themes emerged from the administration of caring guidelines: 1) healthcare professionals, village health volunteers, and caregivers were educated regarding physical therapy and routine healthcare, 2) orthosis tools needed for aids preparation, 3) regular house visits required consistency and continuality, 4) local government promoted community activities, and 5) the local governments and private government needed to relentlessly support. To improve the quality of life and value for dependent elderly people and those who were caregivers, healthcare networks, local government, and community administration should collaborate as a compatible and practical team.