THE CONTEXT OF ELDERLY SOCIAL ADAPTATION IN URBAN COMMUNITY AND RURAL COMMUNITY (ACTIVITY 1)

Abstract

The objectives of this research article were to (1) study the context of elderly social adaptation in urban and rural communities and (2) study the solutions to the social adaptation problem of the elderly in urban and rural communities at present. The key informants are elderly people aged 60 years and who live in Bang Khu Rath Subdistrict, Amphur Bangbuathong, Nonthaburi and Nong Mu Subdistrict, Amphur Wiharndeang, Saraburi, total of 54 people in these 2 areas, were in-depth interviewed on social adaptation. Content analysis was applied to analyze the data.

The result of the study found that the context of elderly social adaptation in urban and rural communities consisted of 1) the problem of Social Standards is the new rules and regulations, 2) the problem of Social Skills is being stuck with groups/close friends, 3) the problem of the trend of anti-social behavior is the rules that affect the elderly's finances, 4) the problem of Family relationships of the urban community is the generation gap and the problem of rural community is loneliness, 5) the problem of Relationships in institutions is the order that must be invested and not familiar to join with big group, 6) the problem of Relationship in the residential community is the misunderstanding with village members.

For solutions that the elderly people use social adaptation currently in both areas consisted of the mental aspects are 1) Being mindful in life 2) Letting it go 3) Being Optimistic 4) Being Friendly 5) Controlling emotions when socializing 6) Helping & Sharing to others 7) Adjusting one's distancing and 8) Recount his/her tale of woe with friends. The physical aspects are 1) Finding hobbies and recreational work 2) Participating in outdoor activities 3) Living a self-sufficient lifestyle, and 4) Earning extra income.