A MODEL FOR INTEGRATING THE FOUR FOUNDATIONS OF MINDFULNESS TO ENHANCE ELDERLY WELL-BEING IN NAM ANG SUBDISTRICT, TRON DISTRICT, UTTARADIT PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aims to 1) study the contextual conditions and health problems of the elderly; 2) analyze the principle of Satipaṭṭhāna 4 in relation to the enhancement of well-being among the elderly; and 3) propose an integrated model based on Satipaṭṭhāna 4 for enhancing the well-being of the elderly. This is a qualitative study. The sample group consisted of 51 monks and individuals, including Buddhist monks, community leaders, elderly persons, public health personnel, village health volunteers, and relevant agencies. The research instruments comprised in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and participant observation. Content validity was established by experts, and the appropriateness of the questions was verified accordingly. The data obtained were analyzed using contextual content analysis.

The findings were as follows:

1) Context and Well-Being Challenges Among the Elderly The elderly population in Nam Ang Sub-district experiences well-being challenges across all four dimensions: physical, mental, social, and spiritual. These challenges are particularly evident in chronic illness, physical deterioration, stress, and loneliness. At the same time, the elderly face a diminished social role and a lack of psychological stability, both of which affect their overall quality of life. Nevertheless, the community possesses strong social capital—including the temple, Buddhist monks, community leaders, and Buddhist religious activities—which can serve as a foundation for developing elderly well-being.

2) Analysis of Satipaṭṭhāna 4 in Relation to Enhancing Elderly Well-Being The principle of Satipaṭṭhāna 4 (the Four Foundations of Mindfulness) can be systematically integrated into the development of elderly well-being, encompassing the physical, mental, social, and spiritual dimensions. Awareness of the body (kāya), feelings (vedanā), mind (citta), and mental objects (dhamma) enables the elderly to cultivate wisdom in daily living and to develop their quality of life holistically. The success of this undertaking arises from the collaboration of the temple, family, community, and health-related agencies, resulting in a model appropriate to the context of the area.

3) Model for Integrating Satipaṭṭhāna 4 This model represents a collaborative effort among the temple, community, family, and health agencies, with Satipaṭṭhāna 4 serving as the central framework for holistic well-being development. It comprises five stages, ranging from contextual study to monitoring and evaluation, ensuring alignment with community ways of life and enabling sustainable implementation.