Self-healthcare Innovation for the Elderly with Thai Traditional Medicine in the Area of Mae Khao Tom Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai Province

Abstract

The objective of this participatory action research was to develop self-healthcare innovations for the elderly with Thai traditional medicine in the area of Mae Khao Tom Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai Province, which is a suburban community with potential for local wisdom in healthcare but lacks a systematic model of promoting self-healthcare. The samples were 60 elderly individuals selected by purposive sampling. The research was conducted in four stages: 1) the planning stage by studying health problems and needs of the elderly and community potential; 2) the operational stage by developing innovations through a participatory process; 3) the observation stage; and 4) the reflection stage, conducted in parallel with applying the developed innovations to the sample group with pre- and post-tests administered. Data collection tools included 1) a health problem survey, 2) pre- and post-tests, and 3) satisfaction assessments. Content validity was verified by five experts with an IOC value between 0.60-1.00. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics including percentage, mean, standard deviation, and inferential statistics with a paired t-test. The results revealed that: 1) the elderly in Mae Khao Tom Sub-district faced health problems with a group of diseases treatable by Thai traditional medicine, and most valued and preferred using Thai herbs and wisdom in healthcare; 2) the community had a role and potential to develop self-healthcare innovations with Thai traditional medicine; 3) two innovations were developed: 3.1) a mobile Thai traditional medicine elderly clinic, and 3.2) a health promotion and prevention activity titled “4S: Longevity Health for the Elderly”; and 4) after using the innovations, the elderly scored significantly higher on self-healthcare knowledge than before at the 0.05 level (t = 21.53), showed improved self-healthcare behaviors, and could apply herbal knowledge in daily life. Overall, 93 percent of the elderly expressed the highest level of satisfaction with the innovations in all aspects.