THE DEVELOPMENT OF RELIGIOUS AND MEDITATION TOURISM FOR ALONE ELDERLY PEOPLE'S PROMOTING WELL-BEING AND DEPRESSION IN TOURISM AREAS OF SECONDARY CITIES IN UPPER NORTHERN THAILAND

Abstract

The objectives of this research were 1) to synthesize the potential development and management of integrated temples 2) to synthesize the development of participatory community-based tourism management 3) to synthesize the development of religious and meditation tourism and to promote the well-being and reduce depression of the elderly who are alone. The model was qualitative research based on in-depth interviews and group discussions. The data were analyzed by expository and descriptive.

The results of this research found that:

1. Tourism potential development, emphasis should be placed on developing attractiveness and environment to be unique and sentimental, provide reasonable and adequate service of basic amenities, drive the tourism management system by allowing the community to participate concretely, and build partnerships with community networks to provide accommodation services for tourists. Tourism Management Development Division should have a plan and management structure clearly, and develop a system of coordination and public relations. Focus on developing personnel to have good service and communication skills.
2. Development of community-based tourism management for the elderly should be a targeted action plan by integrating 3 dimensions of operations, namely economy, society, and environment, based on religious and meditation tourism for the elderly. Integrating cooperation between relevant tourism agencies, providing various facilities to serve elderly tourists in the community, making travel possible with the convenience.
3. The model of Religious and meditation tourism on the pilgrimage route integrated with Buddhist Dharma therapy, named the "MFCAP Model", has key components as follows: 1.) M= Material (Object Dharma), 2) F= Faith (Faith Dharma), 3) C= Custom and Arts and Culture (tradition and culture), 4) A= Activities and Meditation (activities and Dharma practice), and 5) P= Pilgrimage (Pilgrimage).