DEVELOP A MODEL COMMUNITY TO SUPPORT AN AGING SOCIETY USING SPATIAL MECHANISMS

Abstract

This research aims to 1) study the prototype community that supports the aging society through the mechanism of community participation, 2) develop the healthcare system that supports the aging society in the prototype area, and 3) promote the occupation of the elderly from the creative wisdom of the prototype area. The research methodology is qualitative. The study involved interviews with 30 key informants. Data were collected using an interview form. Data were analyzed through descriptive content analysis.

            The research results found that 1) The development of the prototype community that supports the aging society through the participation of community members and various networks, including relevant agencies and organizations, has clear plans and policies for caring for and helping the elderly and their families, such as establishing a place to care for the elderly, providing welfare allowances, providing health services, free medical care, and access to benefits from social security and universal health coverage. 2) Develop the healthcare system for the aging society in the prototype area using the 3 A principles: 1. A. Food, which aims to promote the elderly to gain knowledge about nutrition appropriate for their age, 2. A. Exercise, which focuses on creating understanding of the benefits of exercise and supporting the elderly to be able to exercise conveniently and safely, 3. A. Mood, promoting mental health to prevent mental health problems and caring for the elderly with mental health problems through various activities. that helps to build good mental health 3) Promoting occupations for the elderly by using local wisdom in the prototype area by bringing the activity formats that exist in the community to use in developing various projects, organizing activities to promote occupations that focus on creating health innovations, such as using local herbs