The Active Aging Promoting Model of the Elderly by Social Learning Innovation from the New Normal toward the Next Normal Era

Abstract

         This study is an advanced mixed method research with explanatory sequential design (convergent parallel design) was divided into 3 phases: (1) Quantitative research to study the factors affecting the empowerment of the elderly; (2) Qualitative research to develop a model for empowering the elderly with social learning innovation from the new way to the next way; and (3) Quantitative research to evaluate the results of using the model for empowering the elderly with social learning innovation from the new normal toward the next normal era, and compare the behavior for empowering the elderly before and after using the model. The sample consisted of 295 elderly people aged 60 years and over. Data were collected by questionnaire according to the framework of the active aging concept and social learning as well as stimulating the learning skills of the elderly by Appreciation Influence Control (AIC). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, multiple regression analysis (Stepwise), and content analysis then model creation and testing and compared the mean scores of the behavior for empowering the elderly before and after using the model with paired sample t-test.
          The research results found that elderly behavior under active aging from the new normal toward the next normal era, the average of participation in all 3 areas were at the high level (Mean = 3.70, SD = 0.44). The factors affecting the strengthening of the elderly's behavior were participation in planning and decision making, participation in practice, and participation in receiving benefits. Health promotion behavior to become active elderly (good health and participation in society), and occupation (pensioners or retired person) were predicted jointly at 54.5 percent. The active aging promoting model of the elderly by social learning innovation from the new normal toward the next normal era had 4 components including: (1) health knowledge in all dimensions; (2) perception of themselves before and after enhancement; (3) protection from social network threats and online media; and (4) network partners, caregivers and elderly coordinator under the name “Wiangthakan Aui Model”. After the trial of the model, it was found that the elderly had good health behaviors, participated in activities under the school club for the elderly, and had more security and stability for living in the next normal era of life.