DEVELOPMENT OF A MENTAL HEALTH PROMOTION MODEL TO PREVENT DEPRESSION IN THE ELDERLY IN ANGTHONG PROVINCE

Abstract

This research article aims to study the situation and factors related to depression in the elderly of Ang Thong Province. It also aims to develop and test a model, as well as assess its effectiveness. The research is both a study and a development process. The sample group included elderly individuals aged 60 years and older, with 383 participants in the initial phase and 70 in phases 2-3, divided into an experimental group and a control group, each consisting of 35 participants.The research tools included interviews, questionnaires, the depression assessment scale by the Department of Mental Health, the mental health assessment scale, and the happiness assessment scale. Statistical methods used were frequency, mean, percentage, and chi-square tests.The findings revealed that 69.8% of elderly individuals experienced depression. The factors significantly related to depression in the elderly, at a statistical significance level of 0.05, included age and education level.The model for enhancing mental well-being to prevent depression consists of three steps: enhancing mental health, happiness, and preventing depression. The model includes nine activities, such as Thamma Pha Phloen Charoen Sati ,Prap Khwamkhit Lop Phuea Khwam Phonkhlai, Atta Mai Ma Panya Koet, Atta Hi Atta No NaTho Ton Pen Thiphueng Haeng Ton, Rap Phalang Buak Chat Rabiap Khwamkhit Pen Mit Kap Singwaetlom, Phuean Chuai Phuean Tueanchai Kan, Plian Khwamkhit Chiwit Plian, Phalang Chaima Phalang Kai Koet and last activities is Sung ayu Suk ChaiSuk Panya Upon testing the model, the experimental group showed significantly higher mean scores in mental health and happiness compared to before the experiment and the control group. The depression scores in the experimental group were also significantly lower compared to both their pre-test scores and the control group.