ENHANCING BUDDHIST-BASED ACTIVE AGEING OF THE HAPPY AND HEALTHY ELDERLY SCHOOL UNDER NON SUNG–NAM KHAM MUNICIPALITY, MUEANG DISTRICT, UDON THANI PROVINCE

Abstract

This research article aimed to: 1) study the Five Powers Pañca Bala in Theravāda Buddhist scriptures; 2) investigate the current conditions of Buddhist-based active aging enhancement at the Happy Aging School of Non Sung–Nam Kham Municipality, Mueang District, Udon Thani Province; and 3) examine the process and model for strengthening Buddhist active aging at the Happy Aging School of Non Sung–Nam Kham Municipality, Mueang District, Udon Thani Province. This study employed a qualitative research methodology, collecting data from 34 key informants and analyzing the data through content analysis in accordance with the research process.

The findings revealed that:

1) The study of the Five Powers (Pañca Bala) in Theravāda Buddhist scriptures found that faith Saddhā, energy or perseverance Viriya, mindfulness Sati, concentration Samādhi, and wisdom Paññā are interconnected mental powers functioning systematically. Faith serves as the starting point, perseverance strengthens effort, mindfulness regulates the mind, concentration stabilizes mental states, and wisdom leads to insight and enlightenment. Together, these qualities help eliminate defilements and promote progressive self-development.

2) The study of the current conditions of the Happy Aging School of Non Sung–Nam Kham Municipality, Udon Thani Province, found that the school plays a significant role in enhancing Buddhist active aging. Positive outcomes were identified in four dimensions: community participation, social strengthening, sufficiency-based economy, and improvement in the quality of life of older persons, although some limitations in resources remain.

3) The study of the process and model for strengthening Buddhist active aging found that the school adopts a holistic development approach by integrating the Five Powers into daily life activities. As a result, older persons develop emotional stability, discipline, emotional self-control, and the ability to apply wisdom appropriately in problem-solving, enabling them to live with value, dignity, and a higher quality of life.