The Model of Application Bhavana Iv for Enhancing the Quality of Life of the Elderly in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province

Abstract

             The study aimed to 1) examine the concept of quality of life in elderly care in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, 2) to investigate the four principles of Bhavana as described in Buddhist scriptures, and 3) to propose a model for applying these principles to enhance elderly care in the province. The research employed a qualitative approach, utilizing in-depth interviews as the primary data collection method. Seventeen key informants participated, including fourteen elderly representatives and three caregivers. The findings were analyzed and presented using an inductive method.
             The research findings revealed that:
             1. Elderly individuals, defined as those aged 60 years and above, experience changes in four domains: physical, mental, social, and intellectual. Physically, they face aging, declining health, and reduced energy. Mentally, they are susceptible to depression and loneliness. Socially, behavioral changes may include increased complaining and fussiness. Intellectually, challenges include memory decline and limited familiarity with modern technologies, all of which affect their quality of life and human dignity.
             2. The four principles of Bhavana in Buddhist scriptures consist of kayabhana,physical development and training to know how to interact with external things in a positive way, developing relationships with the physical environment; Silabhavana , behavioral development and conduct to be disciplined to live well with others; Cittabhavana, mental development and training with compassionate, concentrated, joyful, and happy state; and Pannabhavana, the training of wisdom to know and understand things as they really are, solving problems with wisdom.
             3. An application of the Four Principles of Bhavana for the quality of life of the elderly does not mean simply caring for their physical or health aspects; it also encourages the elderly to develop themselves in all aspects: physical, moral, mental, and intellectual. This will lead to a balanced life, happiness, peace of mind, and true value to society in later life. Knowledge derived from research is the EC-KSCP Model.