GUIDELINES FOR BUILDING THE MORAL ENCOURAGEMENT FOR THE ELDERLY BASED ON BUDDHIST TEACHINGS OF WAT THONG NAI COMMUNITY, SUAN LUANG, BANGKOK

Abstract

This doctoral dissertation investigated on 3 main objectives: (1) to study the problems and required needs regarding the building of morale for the elderly at Wat Thong Nai community, Suan Luang, Bangkok; (2) to develop a Buddhist-based approach to morale building for the elderly; and (3) to propose a practical guideline based on Buddhist principles regarding the building of morale for the elderly at Wat Thong Nai community. It was qualitative research integrated both documentary survey and field work through in-depth interviews with 17 key informants, including expert Buddhist monks, constructive psychologists, and elderly residing at Wat Thong Nai community. Data were analyzed using contextual content analysis.

          The results were found that elderly individuals in the Wat Thong Nai community are in physical, emotional, and social deterioration, causing the isolated feeling, emptiness, lack of self-worth, and loss of will to live—especially among those living alone or whose social roles within the family have diminished. Their required needs go beyond basic physical necessities and services; they also require empathy, meaningful social connections, and recognition of their self-worth within society.

          In developing an approach to morale building, the researcher analyzed relevant Buddhist teachings, focusing on the Four Bases of Social Solidarity or 4 Sangahavatthu including: Generosity or Dāna, Kind Speech or Piyavācā, Altruistic Conduct or Atthacariyā, and Equality or Samānattatā. These teachings are not only guidelines for interpersonal harmony but also serve as profound spiritual mechanisms that nurture inner strength for the elderly when combined with key Buddhist insights such as impermanence, non-self, and mindful living.

          From a synthesis of field data and Buddhist teachings, it can be summarized in practical guideline “GBMC Model,” a Buddhist-based morale-building model. It consists: G = Giving alms (Dāna), B = Beautiful speech (Piyavācā), M = Making benefits (Atthacariyā), and C = Consistency (Samānattatā). This model can be adapted and implemented effectively in the family, community, temple, or elderly care center, yet it revives the living power as a compassionate force that supports the elderly in meaningful, dignified lives, especially in the context of Thailand’s transition into a fully aged society.