Health Information Seeking and Utilization Among Elderly Students at Mae Ka Elderly School, Mueang District, Phayao Province

Authors

  • Phornphan Jandaeng School of Business and Communication Arts, University of Phayao

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.64798/tlabulletin.v69i1.280631

Keywords:

Information-seeking, Information use, Elderly health, Elderly school

Abstract

This research aims to study the health information-seeking and usage behaviors of elderly individuals at the Elderly School in Mae Ka Subdistrict, Mueang District, Phayao Province. The study focuses on factors influencing information-seeking, methods of accessing health information, and the challenges faced by the elderly. This quantitative research collected data from 120 elderly students in two elderly schools using questionnaires as the primary tool.

The findings reveal that the most preferred sources of health information among the elderly are medical professionals, followed by television and family members. The most frequently searched health topics include common diseases, exercise, and nutrition. Key factors influencing information-seeking behavior are accessibility, information reliability, and family support. The main challenges identified include a lack of digital literacy, uncertainty regarding information credibility, and vision-related reading difficulties. This finding demonstrates the importance of developing methods to improve elderly access to health information, particularly by enhancing technological skills, providing support from medical personnel, and creating easy-to-use information sources to reduce limitations and improve the long-term quality of life for older adults.

The findings reveal that the most preferred sources of health information among the elderly are medical professionals, followed by television and family members. The most frequently searched health topics include common diseases, exercise, and nutrition. Key factors influencing information-seeking behavior are accessibility, information reliability, and family support. The main challenges identified include a lack of digital literacy, uncertainty regarding information credibility, and vision-related reading difficulties. This finding demonstrates the importance of developing methods to improve elderly access to health information, particularly by enhancing technological skills, providing support from medical personnel, and creating easy-to-use information sources to reduce limitations and improve the long-term quality of life for older adults.

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References

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Published

2025-06-20

How to Cite

Jandaeng, P. (2025). Health Information Seeking and Utilization Among Elderly Students at Mae Ka Elderly School, Mueang District, Phayao Province. TLA Bulletin (Thai Library Association), 69(1), 105–121. https://doi.org/10.64798/tlabulletin.v69i1.280631

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Section

Research Article