PREPARATION FOR QUALITY OF LIFE AFTER RETIREMENT OF AIR FORCE OFFICERS AT THE DIRECTORATE OF OPERATIONS, ROYAL THAI AIR FORCE, BANGKOK

Abstract

This study aimed (1) to examine the level of retirement preparedness for a good quality of life among Royal Thai Air Force officers at the Directorate of Operations, and (2) to compare preparedness levels according to personal factors. The sample comprised 163 officers selected through simple random sampling.
 A questionnaire covering four dimensions—financial, physical, psychological, and leisure-time preparedness—was employed, with an overall reliability coefficient of 0.92. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation) and inferential tests (t-test, ANOVA).

  The findings revealed that:

1. The overall level of retirement preparedness for a good quality of life among Royal Thai Air Force officers was found to be low.


2. When analyzed by personal factors, the following results were observed Age Officers aged 30–40 years demonstrated a higher level of physical health preparedness compared to those aged 41–50 years. This reflects the general decline in physical well-being with age, and underscores the importance of maintaining appropriate health behaviors throughout the pre-retirement phase. Educational Level Officers with an education level below a bachelor’s degree exhibited significantly lower levels of housing preparedness and psychological preparedness than those with higher education. Educational attainment was found to be significantly associated with quality of life in older adults. Individuals with higher education tend to engage in more structured life planning and are more likely to access resources and information that support retirement readiness.Marital Status: Married officers demonstrated greater housing preparedness than those who were widowed or divorced. Marital status appears to exert a positive influence on the quality of life in later years, as having a spouse provides emotional and physical support, contributing to greater stability and mutual care during the retirement transition.