WELFARE DEVELOPMENT GUIDELINES FOR IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF THE ELDERLY IN SURATTHANI CITY, SURATTHANI PROVINCE

Abstract

          The objectives of this research article were to 1) study the problems of quality of life of the elderly in Suratthani city, 2) to study the need for welfare provision to improve the quality of life of the elderly in Suratthani city, and 3) Study the guidelines for quality of life development of the elderly in Suratthani city, Suratthani province. This was a mixed research method using quantitative research. Using the tool as a questionnaire by selecting a specific sample. The sample was elderly people over 60 years of age all 400 persons, using analysis for frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. And qualitatively use the tool as an in-depth interview and focus group. By selecting a specific sample. The key informant was elderly people over 60 years of age and persons directly related to the welfare of the elderly such as 1) executives, 2) municipal officials, and 3) group leaders or senior citizens totaling 30 people. The data was content analysis and summary overview. The research found that 1) Problems in the quality of life of the elderly Overall, it was at a high level ( = 3.57, SD = .43), with the highest mean being social ( = 3.80, SD = .76), followed by psychological ( = 3.52, SD = .60) and the least was health ( = 3.26, SD = .56). 2) Welfare needs overall, it was at the highest level ( = 4.94, SD = .13) with the highest mean. Aid and participation ( = 4.09, SD = .31), followed by housing and utilities ( = 3.97, SD = .29), and least by Education and information ( = 3.91, SD = .29). And 3) Welfare development guidelines include the economic aspect, enhancing income for suitable occupations. In the social aspect, home visit services and clubs should be established. The environment should provide the environment to facilitate. Health should provide knowledge and understanding of first aid. and mentally, should promote group activities.