การพัฒนารูปแบบการมีส่วนร่วมในการปรับสภาพแวดล้อมสำหรับผู้สูงอายุที่มีภาวะพึ่งพิง อำเภอวังสมบูรณ์ จังหวัดสระแก้ว

Rattanachai Pechsombut; Jumnion Suwanachat; Thongchai Thongboo

Authors

Rattanachai Pechsombut Wang Sombun District Public Health Office, Sa Kaeo Province
Jumnion Suwanachat Wang Sombun District Public Health Office, Sa Kaeo Province
Thongchai Thongboo Kingnarai Hospital, Lopburi Province

Keywords:

community participation, dependent older adult, environment

Abstract

This study aimed to study and develop a participatory model for improving the environment for dependent older adults, with an emphasis on community engagement in Wang Somboon District, Sa kaeo Province. A participatory action research design was employed to synthesize and evaluate the environmental modification model to promote the quality of life for dependent older adults, employing a mixed-methods research approach. The sample comprised 43 dependent older adults and 15 members of the subcommittee for supporting long-term care services for dependent older adults. Data collection instruments included an interview guide and a focus group discussion record form. The study was conducted between April 2024 and February 2025. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and pre–post differences were examined using paired samples t-tests. Qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis.

The findings revealed that key environmental challenges included unsuitable housing conditions and surrounding environments, as well as economic, social, and cultural issues such as limited community participation, insufficient income, waste management problems, and substance abuse. The highest priority for environmental improvement was related to welfare support, while the lowest priority was for signage or specialized access routes. The developed model consisted of five core processes: (1) problem identification, (2) problem-solving, (3) planning, (4) participation, and (5) evaluation. These processes were operationalized across three main dimensions: caregiver capacity building, environmental management, and participatory governance. Implementation of the model resulted in improvements in both housing conditions and public facilities, making them more suitable for older adults. In addition, initiatives such as caregiver training, rehabilitation services, vocational support, and long-term quality-of-life planning were successfully implemented. As a result, significant improvements were observed in mean scores for activities of daily living (ADLs), mental health, and quality of life among participants (p < .001).

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