THE DEVELOPMENT OF A HOLISTIC ELDERLY CARE MODEL THROUGH COLLABORATION BETWEEN THE PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS

Abstract

This study aimed to 1) Examine key policies related to elderly care 2) Explore problems, barriers, and limitations affecting the development of a holistic elderly care model in Lampang Province 3) Investigate a health development approach based on Pender’s Model for the local context and 4) Develop a holistic elderly care model through collaboration between the public and private sectors. A qualitative research approach was employed. The findings revealed that key policies related to elderly care include the United Nations frameworks, Thailand’s 20-Year National Strategy, the 13th National Economic and Social Development Plan and government policies. However, Lampang Province continues to face significant challenges, including limited resources, budget constraints, shortages of specialized personnel, inadequate age-friendly infrastructure, insufficient understanding and support from families and communities, as well as barriers to accessing health services and social welfare. Based on the application of Pender’s Model, the researchers developed the “MIND-FIRST Model,” consisting of nine components: Mental Wellness Priority, Individual Empowerment, Nurturing Meaningful Activities, Dignity Preservation, Financial Security Support, Income and Resource Management, Risk Protection Mechanisms, Sustainable Support Systems, and Thriving Environment. Mental well-being was identified as the core dimension, supported by integrated collaboration among the public sector, private sector, community, and family. The developed model was found to be responsive to the local context of Lampang Province and has the potential to be applied in other rural areas of Thailand to sustainably enhance the quality of life of older adults.