BUDDHADHAMMA APPLICATION FOR ENHANCING THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF THE ELDERLY IN SRALONGRUEA SUBDISTRICT MUNICIPALITY AT HUAI KRACHAO DISTRICT IN KANCHANABURI PROVINCE

Abstract

Objectives of this research were: 1. To examine the level of quality of life among older adults residing in the Sra Long Ruea Sub-District Municipality, Huai Krachao District, Kanchanaburi Province; 2. To investigate the relationship between the Six Principles of Saraniyadhamma and the quality of life of older adults; and 3. To propose guidelines for applying Buddhist principles to improve the quality of life of older adults in the study area. A mixed-methods research design was employed. Quantitative research, data were collected from 304 samples who were older adults using a five-point Likert-scale questionnaire with reliability value of 0.788 and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, as well as stepwise multiple regression analysis and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. The qualitative research, data were obtained through in-depth interviewing 11 key informants.

The findings revealed that: 1. By overall, the quality of life of older adults in the Sra Long Ruea Sub-District Municipality was at a high level ( = 4.40, S.D. = 0.21), while the practice of the Six Principles of Saraniyadhamma was also at a high level ( = 4.48, S.D. = 0.26). 2. The overall relationship between Saraniyadhamma and the quality of life of older adults was positive and at a moderate level (R = .757**). and 3. Regarding the application of Buddhist principles to improve the quality of life of older adults, the findings indicated that, in the physical dimension, emphasis should be placed on maintaining good health and physical strength, consuming appropriate and nutritious food, and maintaining healthy practices. In the psychological dimension, the focus should be on developing positive thoughts and emotions and effectively managing emotions. In the social relationships dimension, emphasis should be placed on establishing and maintaining positive relationships with family members, community members, and others in society. In the environmental dimension, older adults should be encouraged to conserve and use natural resources responsibly, maintain cleanliness, reduce pollution, and prevent damage to the surrounding natural environment.