Journal of Education and Research in Public Health

Experiences of Living with Dysphagia in Stroke Patients

Apinya Thindoem — 2025-11-14

Dysphagia is a common complication among stroke patients. This condition affects daily activities and quality of life. Individuals with swallowing difficulties are at increased risk of aspiration and may develop aspiration pneumonia. This qualitative study aimed to explore the experiences of stroke patients living with dysphagia in a hospital in Songkhla Province, Southern Thailand. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with two groups of stakeholders: patients and caregivers, totaling 12 participants, selected using purposive sampling. Interviews continued until data saturation was achieved, and the data were analyzed using content analysis. The study findings revealed four themes regarding the experience of living with dysphagia among stroke patients: (1) dysphagia as profound suffering and a cause of changes in family life, (2) family involvement and organizational support, (3) restoration of identity and social roles, and (4) obstacles to rehabilitation among dysphagia patients. The findings suggest that the data can inform policy development for stroke patients with dysphagia. Additionally, community services should be developed, along with telephone or application-based counseling, to increase the continuity and effectiveness of rehabilitation, and be based on consideration of the individual needs of patients, the readiness and capabilities of their families, and the resources of healthcare facilities to ensure effective and sustainable rehabilitation outcomes.

Prevalence of Malnutrition and Factors associated among Elderly People

Bhunyabhadh Chaimay — 2025-12-29

This cross-sectional analytic study aimed to assess the prevalence of malnutrition and identify factors associated with nutritional status among elderly people. A total of 1,692 participants aged 60 years and above residing in Pa-phayom district, Phatthalung province, were surveyed between January and March 2018. Nutritional status was assessed and classified as normal, risk of malnutrition, and malnourishment. Descriptive statistics assessed prevalence, and simple ordinal logistic regression was employed to determine factors associated with the nutritional status. Results revealed that 48.5% were at risk of malnutrition, and 8.7% were malnourished (42.8% had normal nutritional status). Elderly women were less likely to have a decrease in their nutritional health compared to men (OR_adj = 0.77, 95%CI: 0.63 - 0.93). Participants aged 70 - 79 years and those aged 80 years and above exhibited increase risk of malnutrition by 1.6 times and 3.7 times, respectively (OR_adj = 1.60, 95%CI: 1.28 - 1.99 and OR_adj = 3.72, 95%CI: 2.77 - 4.99). There was less likelihood that the nutritional status of agricultural sector and other occupations will deteriorate (OR _adj = 0.69, 95%CI: 0.54 - 0.87 and OR _adj = 0.53, 95%CI: 0.40 - 0.70). Meanwhile, a moderate level of self-care behavior was associated with 1.4 times higher odds of being malnourished (OR_adj = 1.40, 95%CI: 1.16 - 1.70). These findings indicate that malnutrition in older adults, especially those aged 70 and over, should be monitored. Additionally, elderly people should be continuously screened and assessed for their nutritional status to promote proper nutritional care.

Factors Associated with Activities of Daily Living Among the Elderly in Pa Phayom District, Phatthalung Province

Bhunyabhadh Chaimay — 2025-12-12

This cross-sectional analytical study assessed the Activities of Daily Living ability and associated factors among 1,692 elderly individuals registered at Sub-district Health Promoting Hospitals in Pa Phayom District, Phatthalung Province. Data analysis used descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression statistics. The study's results found that the majority of the elderly, 73.8 percent, had the ability to perform Activities of Daily Living at a self-reliant level. It was also found that the factors of sex, age, occupation, presence of chronic disease, and participation in elderly clubs had a statistically significant relationship with the ADL level. Male elderly individuals were likely to be partially or fully self-reliant 1.69 times more than females (OR_adj = 1.69). Elderly individuals in the age ranges of 60-69 years and 70-79 years were more likely to be able to help themselves than those aged 80 and above. Regarding occupation, it was found that those engaged in agriculture were likely to be partially or fully self-reliant 2.71 times more than other occupational groups. Additionally, elderly individuals without chronic disease were likely to be able to be partially or fully self-reliant 1.71 times more than those with chronic disease, and those who participated in elderly club activities could be partially or fully self-reliant 1.36 times. From the study results, public health personnel should therefore promote and organize activities that focus on physical, mental, and social health care for the elderly in order to help the elderly maintain their ability to perform Activities of Daily Living

Promoting Elderly Health Through Community Participation: The Role of Community Nurses and Policy Recommendations

Punnathut Bonkhunthod — 2025-12-12

Thailand is experiencing a demographic transition toward an ageing society, creating complex and continuous healthcare needs for older adults. This article aims to propose sustainable strategies for promoting older adults’ health using a community-based approach, emphasizing the role of community nurses. A conceptual analysis and literature review were conducted, integrating key concepts such as empowerment, the Ottawa charter, and community participation models. Findings indicate that Thai older adults face multiple challenges, including chronic non-communicable diseases, physical decline, mental health issues related to social isolation, and limited opportunities for social engagement, which affect quality of life and increase the burden on the healthcare system. Community nurses play a crucial role in assessing and identifying health problems, planning and implementing interventions collaboratively with older adults, families, and communities, coordinating with local health services and organizations, providing health education, and conducting action research to develop innovative care practices. These efforts enhance older adults’ well-being, reduce hospital dependency, and promote continuity of care. Policy recommendations include strengthening community nurses’ capacity and supporting systems through budget allocation, digital tools, and training programs. Community-based health promotion not only improves older adults’ quality of life but also fosters resilient communities and a sustainable healthcare system in Thailand’s ageing society.